A fire caused panic in Ampasika, abruptly interrupting a wake. The flames reached the third floor of a house.
A fire broke out on Monday evening in a three-story house in Ampasika, located in the Anosimasina fokontany, within the Bemasoandro commune. The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m., while a wake was being held on the ground floor. The flames were spotted on the third floor, which was unoccupied.
The owner, 28-year-old R. S., a married mother of three, stated that no one was living on the affected floor. The damage was limited to the roof and two windows, with no casualties or significant material losses reported. Despite the incident, the family chose to continue the wake in the house.
Alerted by residents, gendarmes from the local brigade intervened, supported by neighbors and firefighters who arrived with two fire trucks. Jirama cut off the electricity to prevent any further risks.
The police, who were also mobilized, stated that the origin of the fire is believed to be related to an electrical surge. Two rooms were damaged, but the blaze was brought under control within minutes thanks to the coordination of emergency services from the Tsaralalàna station and the solidarity of local residents.
Palpable Fear
“As soon as the flames were visible, panic gripped us,” said a member of the neighborhood security committee who was present at the wake. “Some ran towards the exit, others scattered into the courtyard, not knowing where to take shelter. We could hear crackling, and for a few moments, it was total confusion,” he continued.
“I saw people pushing each other to get out,” confirmed a neighbor. The children were taken to a safe distance, and the elderly were supported by their loved ones. The fear was palpable, with everyone worried that the fire would spread down to the ground floor. It was only after the firefighters arrived that things calmed down, according to various accounts.
Calm has since returned to the scene. No investigation has been announced, but law enforcement authorities have asked the family and neighbors to remain vigilant and to notify them immediately should any further incidents occur.
Gustave Mparany
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-24 06:30:51 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/ampasika-un-incendie-eclate-en-pleine.html