The house located in Excuse Me section, Reiger Park, was engulfed in flames on Thursday night, August 28. Three children were asleep inside, but made it out safely.
Their parents, Michelle and Irvin Peterson, were standing outside the yard when the fire started.
“Our neighbours alerted us to the fire. We opened the door to the sitting room and were confronted by a wall of flames, however, we managed to get our children out safely,” says Michelle.
Irvin tried to save some of their belongings and valuables, but to no avail.
“The roof collapsed and he was almost trapped inside. He suffered severe burn injuries to his head and hands.
“The children’s clothes, school uniforms were also destroyed,” she adds.
Michelle’s sister is currently assisting them with accommodation.
She believes the fire was started by two men who threatened the family because their son owes them R100.
“They were at the house five minutes before the fire broke out. They told us if we don’t pay them, then they will show us something.”
Spokesperson for the Reiger Park SAPS, Sgt Mashudu Phathela, says although the family suspects arson, the cause of the fire is not yet known.
He says an arson docket has been opened.
“Our investigations are still continuing and the suspects were interviewed.”
The men were not arrested due to a lack of evidence.
According to a source, there was a dispute over the R100 for drugs.
“If the men are responsible, why then choose to punish the whole family because of R100? It’s madness.” – @Fanie Boksburg
