Belagavi: Four members of a family were killed and two others critically injured after a refrigerator reportedly exploded and triggered a fire at their house in Chavat Galli, near the Central Bus Stand, late on Monday night. The incident occurred as the family was observing Ganesh Chaturthi, turning the festival into a tragedy for the household.
Refrigerator explosion triggers house fire
According to police, the refrigerator reportedly exploded late on September 14, following which a fire rapidly engulfed the house.
The incident took place within the limits of the Market Police Station in Belagavi. The family members were inside the house when the blast and subsequent fire occurred.
The exact cause of the refrigerator explosion has not yet been established. Police have begun an investigation to determine what led to the blast and the subsequent fire.
Four family members killed
The deceased have been identified as Gajanan Damone, 65, Sharada Damone, 45, Bharati Damone, 50, and Roshan Damone, 21.
Two other members of the family, Priya Damone, 28, and Ganga Damone, 25, suffered serious injuries in the incident and were shifted to a hospital for treatment.
The incident has left relatives and residents shocked, particularly as the family had gathered for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Fire spreads rapidly
The fire reportedly engulfed the house within minutes, leaving the occupants with little time to escape.
The blast and fire also caused extensive damage to the house and belongings. Police and local residents responded to the incident as the family members were trapped inside.
The incident has highlighted the devastating consequences that can follow a household fire, although investigators are yet to establish what caused the refrigerator to explode.
Two critically injured
The two survivors who sustained serious injuries were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Their condition was reported to be critical following the incident. Police and medical teams are continuing to monitor the situation.
The identities of the deceased and injured have been confirmed by police as part of the initial investigation into the incident.
Police investigate cause of blast
Police have launched an investigation into the refrigerator explosion and the fire that followed.
Officials are expected to examine the refrigerator, the condition of the electrical connections and other circumstances surrounding the incident before determining the exact cause.
At present, there is no confirmed finding that the refrigerator malfunctioned because of a particular technical or electrical fault. The cause remains under investigation.
Festival celebrations turn tragic
The family had been observing Ganesh Chaturthi when the tragedy occurred. The incident has cast a pall of gloom over Chavat Galli and left local residents shocked.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to establish how the explosion occurred and whether any other factors contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of household electrical and appliance safety, while the exact circumstances behind this particular blast remain to be determined by investigators.