Reitz Couple Arrested After Infants Die In Shack Fire

A young couple from the Petsana informal settlement in Reitz, Free State, have  been arrested.

The couple were arrested after their two children, a seven-month-old baby girl and a one-year-six-month-old toddler boy — died in a devastating shack fire on the night of Saturday, May 3, 2025.

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The incident occurred around 22:45 when the children were allegedly left unattended while the parents went out drinking.

According to police reports, the couple, aged 23 and 25, had left the children inside their shack without supervision.

While at a local drinking spot, they were informed by a community member that their shack was on fire.

Rushing back to the scene, they were met by police officers and shocked neighbors, only to discover that their children had perished in the blaze.

Cause Of Fire Under Investigation

Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire.

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An inquest has been opened alongside a criminal investigation for child neglect.

Police spokespersons confirmed that forensic teams are working to determine what may have sparked the fire that took the lives of the two minors.

The local community has expressed deep sadness and outrage over the incident, “we are devastated. Those little children died alone. Something has to be done,” said one neighbor.

Parents To Appear In Reitz Magistrate’s Court

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The arrested couple has been charged with child neglect and is expected to appear in the Reitz Magistrate’s Court on Monday, May 5, 2025.

If convicted, they could face severe legal consequences under South Africa’s child protection laws.

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