A major fire erupted at an elderly care home in western Sri Lanka, causing the deaths of at least 12 seniors and injuring 8 others. Investigations found the facility was overcrowded and lacked legal licensing.
The fire occurred late Wednesday night in Anguruwatota city, where flames spread rapidly. Firefighters, police, and local residents rushed to control the blaze amid chaos as residents tried to escape the building.
Local media footage showed parts of the building severely damaged by fire, with furniture and equipment burned, while officials worked urgently to find survivors.
Police reported rescuing 51 residents, including elderly individuals and those with mental health issues, who were then transported by bus to a safe area.
However, the incident sparked criticism after officials revealed the home was not properly registered as an elderly care facility and had previously been warned to comply with regulations but failed to do so.
It was also discovered that the facility housed far more residents than it was designed to support—reportedly built for about 15 people but sheltering 71 at the time of the fire.
Following the incident, the home's director was arrested on suspicion of negligent homicide and is being held pending further investigation.
Authorities are intensively investigating the fire’s cause and the building’s safety measures to identify those responsible for this tragic event that claimed many elderly lives.
. AP
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