Matopo High School Dormitory Gutted by Fire

Matopo High School Dormitory Gutted by Fire

Matopo High School narrowly avoided a tragedy when a fire engulfed the form 1 boys’ dormitory, destroying their belongings and leaving the building in ruins. The incident occurred around 2 am last night, with one vigilant student awake to sound the alarm, ensuring all 52 students evacuated safely.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the students. Matopo High School headmaster, Gardson Sibanda, confirmed the safety of all students, expressing relief that despite the destruction of the dormitory—a modern structure with state-of-the-art amenities—no lives were lost.

“The building, although relatively new, had a wooden ceiling which unfortunately fueled the fire, causing it to spread rapidly and consume everything inside,” explained Sibanda. He added that efforts to salvage any belongings were futile as the fire consumed even the trunks.

Matopo High School Dormitory Gutted by Fire

The estimated cost of the damage is around US$200,000. Initial investigations point to an electrical fault as the likely cause of the inferno, although investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances.

Currently, all 52 students are recuperating at home and are expected to return to school promptly, with provisions made to accommodate their upcoming exams. Despite the devastation, the school administration remains grateful that the incident did not result in any loss of life.

Meanwhile, a 20-year-old woman was arrested in connection with a murder and attempted murder case believed to be linked to a love triangle. Investigations indicate that the suspect, during a confrontation with a 24-year-old mother, allegedly struck the child with a spade, resulting in the child’s death.

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The suspect further assaulted the mother by pouring boiling water over her, causing severe burn injuries. The injured mother was promptly transported to a local hospital for treatment.