(Kampala) – A fire broke out in Kampala’s Kamwokya suburb in the early hours of Friday, October 25, 2024, claiming the life of Melisa Catherine Kiiza, a 15 year old student from City Side School in Kyebando. According to Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP), the fire, which ignited around 1:49 a.m., completely destroyed the structure where Kiiza was residing. Authorities are now working to gather evidence and ensure no other individuals remain trapped in the aftermath.
The fire, reported in Kisenyi 2 Zone, Kamwokya 2 parish, Central Division, spread through a section of makeshift housing built from timber and iron sheets, consuming both property and residence. Owoyesigyire stated that the fire left “all property lost in the blaze,” with the structures razed down entirely.
Emergency responders arrived promptly, with the Police Fire Prevention and Rescue Services leading efforts to extinguish the flames, supported by the Uganda Red Cross and a Scene of Crime Officer. Despite these efforts, they could not prevent the tragic outcome.
Kiiza, the daughter of Ronald Bashisha, was confirmed dead at the scene. Her remains were later transferred to the City Mortuary in Mulago, where a post mortem examination is underway. Authorities will continue to investigate the cause of the blaze, and Owoyesigyire confirmed that police teams are currently “combing through the scene” to ensure no additional persons remain trapped.
Authorities have pledged to provide further updates when available as the investigation progresses.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kisenyi 2 Zone, Kamwokya 2 Parish, Kampala |
| Time of Incident | 1:49 a.m., October 25, 2024 |
| Victim | Melisa Catherine Kiiza, 15 |
| Responding Agencies | Police Fire Services, Uganda Red Cross |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
