Two grandchildren of Bong County Administrative Officer Sam Elliott have reportedly died following a nighttime fire incident in the Chief Compound Community in Gbarnga, Bong County.
The tragic incident is said to have occurred after an alleged electrical fault involving one of the Jungle Energy Power (JEP) transformers in the community.
According to the lead victim, D. Sam Baryougah Elliott Sr., the fire began around 11:25 p.m. when tension lines connected to the transformer at Pot Boiling Junction reportedly detached and fell to the ground before erupting into flames. The blaze subsequently engulfed a five-bedroom house and a nearby shop.
Elliott told reporters in Bong County that two children, believed to be his grandchildren and aged four and five, died in the flames.
An Eyewitness, Amos Zeon, also told this paper that, prior to the incident, JEP technicians had worked on the house’s electricity meter due to a reported power issue.
Meanwhile, residents and eyewitnesses are calling on the Liberia National Fire Service and the Liberia National Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire, particularly in light of the deaths of the two children.
As of press time, the management of Jungle Energy Power (JEP) had not issued an official statement regarding the incident, but has visited the scences and expressed regret for the loss of lives. JEP General Manager Aleyou Keita has assured the bereaved family that they will take responsibility of the damages caused.
