A tragic fire at a retirement home in Indonesia has resulted in the deaths of 16 elderly residents, according to local police.
Deadly Blaze Strikes During the Night
The fire broke out on Sunday evening at a single-storey property in Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi Province. Police spokesperson Alamsyah Hasibuan confirmed the death toll had reached 16, with most victims perishing in the flames. Officials stated that the residents were asleep when the fire started.
"The team on the ground has confirmed that the death toll currently is 16," said Hasibuan. "Fifteen of them were burned to death, while one victim’s body remains intact."
Emergency Response and Survivors
Firefighters with six trucks battled the inferno for over two hours after nearby residents alerted emergency services. Television footage from the scene showed bright orange flames illuminating the night sky, with thick smoke billowing into the air.
In the aftermath, body bags were seen lined up outside the charred building. Fifteen survivors were rescued and are receiving treatment at two hospitals in Manado. Neighbours are reported to have played a crucial role in helping to rescue several residents from the burning home.
Investigation into the Cause
While an initial police report suggested an electrical fault may have sparked the blaze, officials later stated that the exact cause remains under active investigation. The bodies of the victims have been taken to a hospital to be formally identified with the assistance of their families.
This devastating incident in Manado has highlighted critical safety concerns for care facilities, not only in Indonesia but globally. The community is now mourning the profound loss of its older residents in this avoidable tragedy.
