A fire of unknown origin last night affected services at the Neuro ward of the Free State psychiatric complex in Bloemfontein 20h00. Twenty four patients and two staff members were evacuated from the scene very quickly. The Fire Services from the Mangaung Metro were on the scene within minutes. After the scene was deemed to be safer, the second sweep of the building revealed the body of one of the patients in his room.
Management of the institution provided housing and care of the displaced patients in other wards of the hospital and both patients and staff involved in the incident are receiving counselling services.
Unfortunately Mr Hendrik Dichabe, (63) was a victim of the fire. Hendrick Dichabe was a permanent patient at FSPC for the past 10 years. He has no relatives or his place of origin is not known, however, we are doing everything in our power to trace the next of kin.
Mr Paseka Mokhokare (45) from Jagersfontein sustained injuries in the fire and is in a critical but stable condition in the Pelonomi Regional Hospital in Bloemfontein. His family was retrieved from Jagersfontein by the staff of the psychiatric hospital for a visit and will be receiving counselling and support from the hospital.
At present the cause of the fire is not known and South African Police Service (SAPS) is investigating the incident. Initial estimates to the damage the 25 year old building is at R7million.
If there are any donations of male clothing and blankets, interested parties and companies can approach the Office of the CEO at 051 4079260.
Enquiries:
Elke de Witt
Cell: 083 561 6517
E-mail: dewitte@fshealth.gov.za
