The House of Representatives has summoned three key national institutions: the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), the Liberia National Police (LNP), and the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), following a deadly fire incident in the Duport Road community.
The decision was prompted by a formal communication from Montserrado County District #4 Representative, Hon. Michael Thomas, who called the attention of his colleagues to the tragic November 14, 2025 blaze that devastated the Shara Community. The inferno resulted in the deaths of the community’s chairlady, Mrs. Deiode Garnette, along with her children Ms. Judee Garnette and Isaac Garnette, and two grandchildren, Christopher Freeman and Ruth Fleming. The House observed a moment of sympathy as the victims were remembered.
In his communication, Rep. Thomas noted that although the LNFS, LNP, and LEC responded promptly to the emergency and subsequently launched investigations, none of the agencies have made their findings public. This prolonged silence, he stressed, has created space for speculation, conflicting accounts, and growing frustration within the affected community.
“As the representative of the district where this heartbreaking incident occurred, I hold a vested interest in ensuring that our people receive clear and factual information,” Rep. Thomas wrote. “The absence of an official report has intensified tensions and confusion among residents who are seeking answers.”
He further appealed to the House to intervene by inviting the three agencies to present their investigative updates before Plenary. According to him, doing so would help restore public confidence and dispel misinformation surrounding the cause of the blaze and the circumstances leading to the tragic loss of life.
Following deliberations, Plenary concurred with Rep. Thomas’s request and voted to summon the LNFS, LNP, and LEC. The institutions are expected to present detailed reports on their findings next Tuesday. Lawmakers say the hearing is part of the Legislature’s oversight responsibility to ensure accountability, transparency, and the protection of citizens’ welfare.
The upcoming session is expected to draw significant public interest as families and residents of Duport Road await answers and hope for closure after the heartbreaking tragedy.
