Cape Town – A mother and her 9-month-old baby died when their informal structure caught fire in Blackheath early yesterday.
Amanda Booysen and her baby Skyler were burnt beyond recognition.
Police spokesperson Noloyiso Rwexana said that Mfuleni police had opened an inquest case following the fire that occurred at about 12.15am at Omo Street in Happy Valley.
“According to reports a woman aged 29 and a 9-month-old baby died in the fire. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.”
The City’s fire and rescue service said they dispatched crews from Mfuleni and Kuils River to battle the blaze.
Spokesperson Jermaine Carelse said: “The City’s fire and rescue service received an emergency call at approximately 12.35am of an informal structure that was alight in Omo Court, Wimbledon.
“Fire crews were immediately dispatched to the incident. Upon arrival, some community members were endeavouring to extinguish the blaze and informed the officer that there were persons inside the structure.
“Two persons sustained fatal burn wounds in the fire, their bodies were found beside the bed and were burnt beyond recognition. It is believed to be an adult and a minor.”
Carelse said that the fire was extinguished at 1.04am.
Area councillor Karien Mare said she was saddened by the incident and would speak to relevant people to assist.
“I heard that a mother and child perished in that fire, and the unfortunate part is that there is no other relative known at this stage.
“I will try to speak to the relevant authorities on how we can assist,” she said.
Cape Times