A tragic fire at a retirement home in Indonesia has resulted in the deaths of 16 elderly residents, according to local police.
Details of the Deadly Blaze
The fire broke out on Sunday evening at a single-storey facility in Manado, located in North Sulawesi Province. Police spokesperson Alamsyah Hasibuan confirmed the grim toll on Monday, stating that emergency teams had verified 16 fatalities.
Officials reported that the fire started while the residents were asleep. Fifteen of the victims perished from burns, while one body was found intact. Television footage from Sunday night showed fierce orange flames illuminating the sky and plumes of smoke filling the air.
Rescue Efforts and Survivors
Firefighters, deploying six trucks, battled the inferno for over two hours before bringing it under control. The alarm was initially raised by neighbours, who also assisted in rescuing several residents from the burning building.
Fifteen survivors were rescued and are currently receiving treatment at two hospitals in Manado. The bodies of the victims have been transferred to a hospital where identification is being carried out with the assistance of families.
Cause Under Investigation
While an initial police report suggested the blaze may have been caused by an electrical fault, officials have since stated that the exact cause remains under active investigation. The scene outside the home was a sombre sight, with body bags lined up as emergency services worked through the night.
This incident highlights critical concerns regarding fire safety standards in care facilities, particularly for vulnerable elderly populations.
