​PNG Fire Service Confirms Six Dead in Port Moresby Blaze

The PNG Fire Service has confirmed six deaths — three adults and three children — following a house fire in Port Moresby early this morning on Kingfisher Street between Gordons and Erima.

The blaze broke out while residents were asleep, rapidly engulfing a two-storey rental property owned by a man from Hela Province. The family in the lower unit, originally from Southern Highlands, was trapped inside.

Chief Superintendent Saina Luwai said recovery teams found the victims in two rooms.
“The children were with their aunty and grandmother, while the father was in another room,” he said. “Barred windows prevented their escape.”

Firefighters arrived minutes after receiving the 2:56am distress call, but the building was already alight. Tenants in the upper unit blocked smoke from entering, smashed a bathroom window and jumped to safety.

Despite neighbours’ efforts to rescue the family below, the flames spread too quickly. Two neighbouring homes were damaged, including a property belonging to Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa.

Luwai described the recovery as traumatic for emergency responders and residents. Investigations into the cause of the blaze are underway.
“We are doing everything possible to establish what started the fire and prevent similar tragedies,” he said.

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