Kataka: A six-year-old boy was killed and an elderly man sustained critical injuries after a massive fire broke out in a three-storey residential building at Hatipokhari under Darghabazar Police Station in Kataka on Monday morning.
According to sources, the mishap occurred in the early hours when the family was asleep. Locals noticed thick smoke billowing from the building and immediately alerted the Fire Services Department. In no time, the flames spread rapidly and engulfed the entire structure, trapping the inmates inside. Hearing cries for help, neighbours rushed to the spot and launched rescue efforts. The minor boy suffered severe burn injuries in the blaze. He was rescued and rushed to SCB Medical College and Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries despite treatment. The elderly person injured in the incident has been admitted to the emergency ward of SCB Medical in critical condition.
Upon being informed, Fire tenders reached the spot and doused the flames after a strenuous effort. Fire personnel entered the building risking their lives and rescued others trapped inside.
While the exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, a short circuit is suspected to have triggered the blaze. Police and fire officials have started an investigation into the incident.
