A family is homeless after their dwelling home was burnt on Tuesday afternoon within the Panatina Creek community, behind Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Panatina Campus, East Honiara.
The fire was believed to have started from a candle lit by the owner’s four-year-old son using handle matches.
It was claimed during the course of lighting the fire with a handle of match, fire unexpectedly caught a mattress inside the bedroom leading to the blaze.
Fire broke out between 12pm to 1pm in the afternoon
The father was at his sister’s house when he was alerted of the fire. He rushed back the home only to save the child and other kids as the home was already covered with fire.
Neighbours also rushed to the site in trying to contain the blazing fire but failed because of the intensity of the fire. Within minutes the house was covered with fire resulting in damages to the structure and belongings inside the home.
The father who is also an employee of Solomon Island Ports Authority (SIPA) was in total shock to witness his home consumed by the fire.
The wife after arriving home from town was so emotional to see their family home badly burnt.
“All our belongings were gone except the clothes we are wearing,” said the emotional father.
The kids who attended schools in town have all their school items such books, basket and uniform burned down.
“The father and mother with the kids were shocked by the incident,” said one neighbour.
Community leader Victor Alaiasi who he was on duty at SINU Panatina Campus also rushed back to lead his community try help save the burning home. But nothing could not be done to save the house.
Mr Alaiasi now plans to organize a meeting with the community soon to donate something to assist the family.
Members of the family are now living with relatives as the family tries to recover.
Any organization or individuals who wish to assist the family can contact the owner Mr Harry on 7529500.
