NEW DELHI: Four people were burnt alive, while two others suffered severe burn injuries after a fire broke out at a house in Karnataka’s Belagavi city in the early hours of Tuesday (Sept 15).
The blaze, which was allegedly triggered by an electrical short circuit, was followed by a refrigerator blast in the Chauhan Galli area.
Family had celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi
According to the IANS report, police said the family had celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi at home on Monday before going to sleep.
A preliminary investigation suggests that a short circuit caused the fire late at night. The refrigerator allegedly exploded soon after, causing the flames to spread rapidly and engulf the entire house.
The deceased have been identified Gajanan Dhamone, 65, Roshan Dhamone, 21, Sharada Dhamone, 45, and Bharati Dhamone, 45.
Priya Dhamone, 28, and Ganga Dhamone, 25, sustained severe burn injuries and are undergoing treatment at a private hospital.
Police said they suffered burns over around 70 to 80 per cent of their bodies and their condition remains critical.
Refrigerator reduced to small box
The family was living in a shed-like structure, where the victims were sleeping together when the fire broke out.
The blaze was so intense that the refrigerator was reduced to what police described as the size of a small box. Household belongings were also completely destroyed.
The Dhamone family worked as labourers. The incident has left local residents shocked, particularly as the tragedy occurred shortly after the family had celebrated the festival.
Belagavi Police Commissioner visited the spot and inspected the scene.
The jurisdictional Market Police have started a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the refrigerator blast. - The Statesman/ANN
