MONROVIA – The Duport Road Shara Community was plunged into deep mourning on Friday as the funeral service began in Congo Town for five family members who perished in a devastating fire that gutted their home late Friday night.
The deceased include the community’s Chairlady, Mrs. Deiode Davies Garnett, and her children Judee, Treasure, Christopher, and Isaac all of whom were trapped inside their residence when flames rapidly engulfed the building around 11:00 p.m.
The tragedy has left residents shattered, describing the incident as one of the darkest moments in the community’s history. Many are still struggling to come to terms with the loss of an entire household that played a central role in community leadership and social life.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire broke out suddenly, giving the victims little to no chance of escape. Neighbors, assisted by officers of the Liberia National Fire Service, battled desperately to contain the blaze, but the inferno intensified, ultimately consuming the structure and everything within.
What was initially feared has now been painfully confirmed: the Chairlady and all four of her children lost their lives in the disaster.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire. Both the Liberia National Fire Service and the Liberia National Police have launched a full-scale investigation.
As the coffins of the victims were carried into the church in Congo Town, an atmosphere of sorrow hung heavily over the gathering. Family members, community residents, and local leaders wept openly, paying their last respects to a woman they described as “dedicated,” “fearless,” and “a mother to everyone.”
Residents of Duport Road Shara Community say they are united in grief but are calling on authorities to prioritize fire safety measures and emergency response capacity to prevent future tragedies of this magnitude.
The heartbreaking incident has sparked conversations nationwide about fire safety preparedness, the condition of residential structures, and the need for stronger community-based disaster response systems.
Mrs. Garnett and her children will be laid to rest later today.
