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Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
A TWO-year-old baby from Dulibadzimu suburb in Beitbridge died in hospital from burns sustained in a fire that allegedly started after her parents’ landlady left a candle burning.
The tot died on admission to Beitbridge District hospital following the inferno that occurred on Sunday during a Zesa load-shedding period.
Acting police spokesperson for Matabeleland South Province, Sergeant Thabani Mkhwananzi said the incident occurred at around 9PM in the area commonly known as Red Bricks.
He identified the infant as Kelsey Zengeya.
Sgt Mkhwananzi said the body had been taken to Beitbridge District hospital mortuary.
“Initial investigations reveal that the baby’s mother left her sleeping and went to the house next door.
“During that time their landlady lit a candle in her room. She went to bath leaving the candle unattended,” he said.
Sgt Mkhwananzi said police suspect the candle fell on the bed setting the room ablaze.
The fire, said the police spokesperson, spread rapidly to other rooms including the one where the toddler was sleeping.
“As a result she was severely burnt.
“Neighbours tried to rescue her but it was too late as the baby was pronounced dead on admission to Beitbridge District Hospital,” he said.
He said investigations were underway.
Sgt Mkhwananzi warned members of the public against leaving fires unattended to avoid the unnecessary loss of life and the destruction of property.
Online Reporter