South Africa: At least 63 people have died and over 40 have been injured following a fire that broke out in a multi-story building in Johannesburg. According to authorities, the building where the fire erupted is an old structure that housed many homeless individuals. The cause of the fire is not yet known.
Robert Mulaudzi, the spokesperson for the emergency and rescue services in Johannesburg, stated that the fire broke out in a building located in the city's business district. Firefighters who were called to the scene rescued the occupants of the building and the many injured individuals who were affected by smoke inhalation or burns. They were taken to hospitals while suffering from minor injuries.
He further added that after gaining control over the fire, a search operation was initiated within the building. He cautioned that the death toll could still rise. According to reports in the local media, it is possible that the number of people who resided in the building was around 200. The fact that most of the residents were homeless makes the search and identification of bodies even more challenging.
