Ruptly
"A devastating fire tore through an elderly care home in Anguruwatota, Sri Lanka, on Wednesday, claiming the lives of 13 people and injuring several more. Footage shows the care home engulfed in flames, with fire crews arriving at the scene. The aftermath reveals a gutted single-storey structure, with charred walls, collapsed roofs and debris-strewn floors. Police teams are later seen inspecting the area, while volunteers carry the deceased and place them into a van. According to media reports, the blaze started around 5:30 pm and is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault. The fire led to the complete destruction of the facility, which was housing 71 residents—far exceeding its designed capacity of 15. Reports indicate that 10 residents were found dead at the scene, while another three succumbed to injuries after being transported to Horana Base Hospital. The victims included the elderly and individuals with special needs and mental illnesses, the youngest of whom was a 17-year-old boy. In total, 51 residents were rescued by military personnel and public officials amid the chaos, while seven injured individuals remain hospitalised. Authorities have arrested the facility’s director for negligence, as the home was operating without proper registration and serious safety concerns had been raised. A magisterial inquiry has been launched into the incident."
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