In a heartbreaking incident on Thursday morning, 8 February 2024, an Amajuba Park family faced an unimaginable tragedy as their three-year-old daughter and all their belongings were lost in a devastating house fire.
The fire erupted at approximately 2 am on Olifant Crescent in Amajuba Park, engulfing the Wendy house where the family of four resided on a relative’s property.
Leona de Jager, the family’s relative and homeowner, recounted the harrowing event, explaining that the young family was asleep when they were abruptly awakened by the flames. Upon the outbreak of the fire, Leona explained that Anthony and Lizaan, the parents, took action to rescue their children. While they successfully saved their eight-year-old daughter, Liany, from the engulfing fire, tragically, they were unable to rescue three-year-old Kayli, who had celebrated her birthday just the day before.
During the desperate attempts to save Kayli, Leona described how her husband and Kayli’s father attempted to extinguish the flames, while the fire station was contacted, and her mother sought help from nearby residents.
Now left devastated by the loss of their youngest child, the family is in urgent need of assistance. Jan Delport, a close friend of the family, shared details of a community-driven initiative to support them with essential items such as groceries, toiletries, and financial aid.
Expressing his heartfelt connection to the family, Delport stated, “When I received the news, it touched my heart as I have known the family since I was a child. There are drop-off points where people can contribute to the cause.”
The drop-off points, according to Delport, are at the following locations:
- Newcastle:
- Newcastle Mills, 33 Kirkland Street – speak to Jan Delport
- 6 Pascal Street, Airport Industrial – Slagcrete – speak to Ivan Hopkins.
- Ladysmith: 4 Verwoerd Street
- Glencoe: The Rusty Bucket – Shop 12, 66 Karellandman Street
Moreover, Delport noted residents could also contact him on 06 461 9671 for further information on how to assist the family. A fund is also being run to help the family with the necessary funeral expenses, and Deo Victoria Church can be on 034 318 1400 for information on this.
As the family grapples with the immense challenges they now face, the community is urged to unite and extend support during these difficult times.
Newcastillian News extends sincere condolences to the de Jager family in the wake of this tragic event.
Be sure to share your thoughts and messages of support in the comments section below as we come together to offer solace during this trying period.
