At least six people, including a young infant, have died in a devastating fire in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, authorities have confirmed.
The blaze broke out on Sunday evening in a residential area, rapidly engulfing a family home where several occupants were asleep. Emergency responders and local residents were alerted by neighbours who heard cries and saw smoke billowing from the house.
Firefighters arrived at the scene but were confronted with intense flames, which had already consumed much of the structure. Despite efforts to control the fire and rescue those trapped inside, six people were found dead when the smoke cleared — among them a baby who was reportedly too young to walk.
Survivors, friends and relatives were left in shock over the tragedy.
“We came to help, but by the time the firefighters got here the house was already burning fiercely,” one neighbour said. “It is heartbreaking to think a whole family has been lost in this way.”
Police and emergency officials have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, but preliminary reports suggest it may have started accidentally. Lightning, an electrical fault or unattended cooking are all being considered, though nothing has been confirmed.
Regional authorities have expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and have vowed to support them during this difficult time. Local leaders also urged residents to take extra precautions in their homes, especially with the increased use of electrical appliances and cooking fires.
The incident has once again drawn attention to fire safety and emergency preparedness in residential communities across the country, particularly in areas where homes are close together and night-time responses can be slow.