One person killed in City House fire

One person has been confirmed dead and properties worth millions of shillings have been destroyed after fire gutted City House on Luwum Street in Kampala’s central business district.

Eyewitnesses say the fire started at 9:15 am in the basement, which houses California Bar and other restaurants. The fire then spread to the third floor, where the Democratic Party-DP offices are located.

At the time of the fire outbreak, several shops near City House were still closed for business.

According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire the Deputy PRO KMP, they have commenced investigations into the cause of the fire. During the weekly police press briefing at Naguru on Monday, Owohesigyire said that the fire fighters were still trying to put down the fire, though they found difficulty accessing water to use.

“Our fire trucks found it difficult moving around to find water close by the scene. It is not true that our trucks came without water. We are fighting the raging fire using water that is close by,” said Owoyesigyire.

He says they are yet to confirm the details of the deceased person.

Full police statement;

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tragic Fire Incident at City House, Kampala: One Confirmed Fatality

11.12.2023

Today, at approximately 9 am, a devastating fire erupted at City House in Kampala, resulting in one confirmed fatality. The deceased individual has yet to be identified, and the body has been transported to the City Mortuary Mulago for a thorough postmortem examination.

Following the heroic efforts of the Fire Prevention and Rescue services, the blaze has been successfully extinguished, preventing further escalation. However, concerns remain about the possibility of additional casualties within the remnants of the building. The dedicated team at Central Police Station Kampala is actively working to verify if there are other bodies still trapped inside.

An immediate investigation has been initiated to determine the precise cause of the fire. The findings of this investigation will be communicated promptly to the public.

We express heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased.

We kindly request the cooperation of the public during this challenging time as we are yet to open up the roads adjacent to the crime scene. The building itself is not safe for occupancy and will be closed off until further notice. We will provide further information as it becomes available.

ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police .