eThekwini says unattended stove cause of Kennedy fire
Preliminary investigations have revealed what
led to a deadly blaze at a Durban informal settlement.
"The cause of the fire is suspected to be an open flame, potentially due to an unattended stove," said eThekwini Municipality spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana.
A mother and her 18-month-old-baby died in the Saturday midnight blaze at the Kennedy Road Informal Settlement, after suffering third-degree burns.
eThekwini Municipality’s Fire and Emergency Services, who responded to the scene, said no other injuries have been reported.
Humanitarian aid is also being offered by non-profit organisations including the Gift of the Givers, after around 122 shacks were destroyed.
READ: Mother, baby killed in midnight Kennedy fire tragedy
The Municipality is also appealing to the public to assist with donations.
Sisilana said some displaced families have found temporary shelter with neighbours, relatives, and friends.
"Unfortunately, approximately 150 people have been displaced as a result of the incident. Disaster management teams have been notified and are attending to the scene."
The provincial cooperative governance department has also dispatched disaster management teams.
MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi is expected to visit the area on Monday once officials have completed their assessments.
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