Lusaka granny dies in fire with 3 drunk grandchildren who failed to put out candle

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A 67 year old granny of Lusaka’s Chaisa has died in a fire with her three grandchildren who went out on a drinking spree and forgot to put out a candle which is suspected to have ignited the flame.

According to a report submitted by Grace Nyirenda to the police, the fire that led to the four casualties was ignited around 01:00 hours this morning.

The deceased have been identified as Iled Phiri, 67, and three grandchildren, Eunice Ngoma, aged 23, Ireen Tembo, 34, and 17 year old Blessings Mpalo, all of the same household.

“Initial investigations reveal that the deceased Iled Phiri, the homeowner, retired to bed on the evening of yesterday January 3, 2025 at approximately 19:00 hours, leaving the door unlocked and a candle lit due to a power outage.”

“Her three grandchildren reportedly left the house to drink at Waleta Bar in Chaisa. At approximately midnight, the grandchildren were seen leaving the bar, intoxicated, and returned home,” police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga disclosed.

The grandchildren who were drunk, reportedly failed to extinguish the lit candle before going to bed which eventually led to the house being gutted and they all died on the spot.

Neighbours who noticed smoke coming from the house alerted other residents and informed the police.

“The Fire Brigade was also called and managed to extinguish the fire. Upon visiting the scene, police found the four bodies burnt beyond recognition,” Hamoonga added.

“The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the University Teaching Hospital Mortuary, pending postmortem examinations.
An Inquiry File has been opened, and investigations are underway to determine the exact circumstances leading to the fire.”

The Zambia Police Service urged the public to exercise caution when using open flames such as candles, especially during power outages, and to ensure proper safety measures are followed to prevent such tragedies.

Picture for illustration

By Moses Makwaya

Kalemba January 4, 2025

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