Police appeal to identify woman burnt beyond recognition in house fire in Bulawayo

Police have appealed for public assistance to identify a woman who was burnt beyond recognition in a house fire in Iminyela, Bulawayo, in the early hours of Monday.

The woman, believed to be about 35 years old, died after the house caught fire at around 3.20 AM. A 43-year-old man was seriously injured.

According to Bulawayo Metropolitan police, the man was at his Iminyela home with the woman on Sunday night when they used a candle to light the room. The two later fell asleep with the candle still burning, causing the house to catch fire.

The man woke up at about 3.20 AM to find the room engulfed in flames. He managed to escape but could not rescue the woman who remained trapped inside.

He sought help from neighbours, who alerted the Bulawayo Fire Brigade.

“When checking the house, they found the now deceased severely burnt and showing no signs of life,” police said in a statement.

The woman’s body was taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals mortuary for post-mortem and identification, while the man was referred to Mpilo Central Hospital for treatment.

Police are now appealing to anyone with a missing female relative aged around 35 to come forward.

Those with information have been urged to contact ZRP West Commonage on 0292 2403998 or visit United Bulawayo Hospitals mortuary for body identification.

Police also urged residents to exercise caution when using candles and other open flames.

“Never leave it burning, unattended or sleep while it is lit, as this can result in devastating house fires or loss of lives,” they said.