A devastating incident in Doornkop, Soweto, has left three people dead, including a one-year-old child, after a double-storey building collapsed in the early hours of Sunday morning. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised renewed concerns about building safety and structural compliance in residential areas.
According to Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS), the collapse occurred shortly after 3 a.m. when emergency responders received a distress call reporting that a multi-storey structure had given way while occupants were inside. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the scene, where they were met with piles of rubble and frantic cries for help.
Preliminary information indicates that six people were inside the building at the time of the collapse. EMS spokespersons confirmed that emergency crews worked swiftly and methodically to search through the debris, using specialised equipment to locate and extricate those trapped beneath the rubble. Despite the difficult conditions and the risk of further structural instability, all six occupants were successfully rescued from the collapsed structure.
The injured were rushed to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Tragically, despite the efforts of medical staff, a one-year-old child and two adult women later succumbed to their injuries. The loss of the young child has been particularly heartbreaking for both the affected family and the broader community.
Three other victims survived the ordeal and remain hospitalised. Hospital officials have indicated that they sustained varying degrees of injuries, ranging from moderate to serious, and are currently receiving ongoing medical care. Their conditions are being closely monitored, and families have been informed of their progress.
In the aftermath of the collapse, authorities cordoned off the area to prevent residents from entering the unstable structure. The scene has since been handed over to investigators who will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the cause of the collapse. At this stage, officials have not ruled out any possibilities, including structural defects, poor construction practices, or weakened foundations.
Johannesburg EMS has urged residents across the city to remain vigilant and proactive when it comes to building safety. Officials have emphasised the importance of reporting visible warning signs such as cracks in walls, leaning structures, sagging roofs, or unusual shifting sounds. Early reporting, they say, can help prevent similar tragedies and potentially save lives.
Community members in Doornkop have expressed shock and grief following the incident, with some calling for stricter inspections and enforcement of building regulations. As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by unsafe structures and the critical need for regular maintenance and oversight.
Authorities have extended their condolences to the families affected by the collapse and assured the public that a full investigation will be conducted to establish accountability and prevent future incidents.
