COLOMBO – The death toll from the devastating fire that engulfed an elderly care home in Horana on Wednesday (3) has risen to 11, while three residents remain unaccounted for, police said as search and recovery operations continued.
The blaze broke out at an elders’ care facility in the Galpatha area of Horana, where 72 residents were staying at the time of the incident, triggering a major rescue effort involving firefighters, police, emergency responders and local residents.
Police said 44 residents were rescued without injury, while seven others who sustained injuries were admitted to the Horana District Hospital for treatment.
Authorities initially reported 11 residents missing in the aftermath of the fire. Subsequent searches of the premises led to the recovery of several charred bodies, bringing the confirmed death toll to 11.
The fire, which rapidly spread through the facility and caused extensive damage, was eventually brought under control following an intensive firefighting operation.
Investigators have yet to determine the exact cause of the blaze. However, preliminary inquiries indicate that a gas cylinder inside the facility may have exploded, contributing to the rapid spread of the fire.
Police have deployed forensic teams to assist in identifying the victims and determining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
A magistrate’s inquiry is scheduled to be conducted on Thursday (4), while the Judicial Medical Officer’s report is expected to provide further details regarding the victims and causes of death.
The incident is among the deadliest fire-related tragedies in Sri Lanka in recent years and has raised questions about safety standards and emergency preparedness at residential care facilities.
Meanwhile, authorities have arranged temporary accommodation for 51 displaced residents at Batagoda Primary School as relief and welfare efforts continue.
Horana Police are conducting further investigations into the incident
-ENCL
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