A devastating fire that broke out in the early hours of Thursday morning has claimed the lives of six family members in Bukasa, Kirinya, located in the Bweyogerere area of Wakiso District.
The tragic incident has left the local community in shock and mourning.
According to a press statement issued by the Kampala Metropolitan Police, the fire was reported at around 3am at the residence of Ssekabila Fred, aged 45.
Neighbors were jolted awake by a loud blast emanating from the home. Upon rushing to the scene, they found the house already consumed by flames, making any rescue attempts nearly impossible.
Police were immediately alerted, and a team from the Fire Prevention and Rescue Services responded swiftly. The firefighters managed to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading to nearby houses, but the destruction had already taken a fatal toll.
A team of investigators was dispatched to the site to assess the cause and circumstances surrounding the fire. During their inspection, six bodies were recovered from the debris.
The victims were all members of the same family. They have been identified as:
- Gonja Winniefred (Mother)
- Nabuya Gloria, aged 20
- Nakakira Peace, aged 16
- Nebula Briyan, aged 7
- Nakamya Helena, aged 9
- Ssekabila Fred, aged 45 (Father)
All the bodies have been transported to City Mortuary Mulago for postmortem examination. Authorities hope the autopsy results will provide more insight into the exact cause of death and possibly the circumstances leading to the fire.
While the exact origin of the blaze is yet to be determined, preliminary investigations have raised the possibility of foul play or a deliberate act.
According to statements gathered from friends and neighbors, the late Ssekabila Fred had reportedly exhibited signs of emotional distress and possible suicidal tendencies in the days leading up to the incident.
Police, however, emphasize that this remains only one of the lines of inquiry. “Investigations are ongoing, and we are looking at all possible causes, including accidental ignition and other criminal motives,” said ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police.
The loss has sent shockwaves throughout the Kirinya community, where the family was well-known. Neighbors described them as quiet and reserved but close-knit. Several community members have called for increased mental health support and quicker emergency response mechanisms to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
“This is not just a loss for one family — it’s a tragedy for the whole community,” said a visibly emotional resident. “We need to do more to look out for each other.”
The police have pledged a thorough investigation and will release more information as it becomes available. In the meantime, they have urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation as the facts are still being established.
The fire in Bukasa is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community vigilance, both in terms of physical safety and mental well-being.
