A devastating Etwatwa fire has claimed five lives in the Steve Biko informal settlement in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. A teenage boy, the only survivor of his family, narrowly escaped death in the late-night blaze.
What Happened During the Etwatwa Fire?
On the night of 9 November 2025, emergency crews responded to a call in Etwatwa just before midnight. A five-room shack was already fully engulfed in flames when they arrived.
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According to Ekurhuleni Emergency Services spokesperson William Ntladi, the fire had spread quickly through the structure.
“The primary responding team found a five-roomed shack engulfed by flames with entrapment on their arrival,” Ntladi said.
Despite efforts to extinguish the fire using two attack lines, five family members — the mother, father, and three children — were declared dead at the scene. The teenage son survived as he was sleeping in a detached outside room.
Teen Survives Deadly Fire That Killed Five Family Members
The teenage boy’s survival is a rare glimmer of hope in an otherwise tragic story. He was asleep in a separate outside room, just a few metres from the main structure.
Paramedics assessed him on the scene. Thankfully, he did not suffer any physical injuries.
“All five [family members] were declared dead on the scene by paramedics,” confirmed Ntladi.
The boy is currently receiving trauma counselling, supported by local social development services.
Fire’s Cause Remains Unknown
The cause of the Etwatwa fire remains under investigation. Fire-safety officers and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are currently examining the scene.
The City of Ekurhuleni handed over the scene to SAPS for forensic investigation and removal of the deceased.
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Ekurhuleni’s Growing Informal Settlement Fire Crisis
This fire is not an isolated case. The City of Ekurhuleni has experienced a worrying increase in shack fires in informal settlements. According to Ekurhuleni News, nine people died in four separate fires across the city just last week.
Key Risk Factors in Informal Settlements:
- Overcrowded housing
- Flammable building materials
- Unsafe heating and cooking methods
- Limited access to emergency services
These fires often spread rapidly, making escape nearly impossible, especially at night.
Emergency Services on High Alert
Ekurhuleni’s Emergency Services are increasing patrols and public awareness campaigns. Officials are urging residents to adopt safer fire practices.
Ntladi said that the department remains on high alert during the colder months, when fires are more common due to indoor heating.
“Prevention and education are key. We continue engaging communities on safe heating methods,” he said.
What Support Is Available for Survivors?
Social workers from the Gauteng Department of Social Development are now assisting the surviving teen. Trauma counselling and temporary shelter are being provided.
Organisations like Gift of the Givers and Red Cross have also stepped in to offer humanitarian aid.
Community Outcry and Need for Long-Term Solutions
This tragedy has reignited debate over the need for safer housing in informal settlements. Community leaders and NGOs are calling for:
- Improved housing infrastructure
- Access to electricity
- More visible policing and emergency readiness
Residents say repeated warnings about fire risks have gone unheard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What caused the Etwatwa fire?
The exact cause is still under investigation by SAPS and fire safety officers.
How did the teen survive?
He was sleeping in a detached room, away from the main structure where the fire occurred.
What support is he receiving?
He is getting trauma counselling and shelter from social development authorities.
Are shack fires common in Gauteng?
Yes, especially during colder months. Ekurhuleni has seen a spike in such incidents recently.
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The Etwatwa fire underscores the ongoing dangers of informal settlement living conditions in South Africa. While emergency teams responded quickly, the fire’s intensity left little room for rescue. As the investigation continues, the focus must now shift toward prevention and structural reform.
