Tragedy struck Ode-Aye community, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, as two children of the same parents were killed in a fire incident that engulfed their residence.
Sunday gathered that the victims, identified as Queen Ohwo (6) and Everlyne Ohwo (4), were trapped in the inferno which razed parts of the family house at 1 Olaribigbe Street, Zion Area, Ode-Aye.
The incident occurred on March 18 and has left their children’s parents, Mr and Mrs Ohwo Peter, devastated.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Saturday, noting that its operatives promptly visited the scene for documentation and preliminary investigation.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, the remains of the children, which were severely burnt, were evacuated to the Health Centre in Ode-Aye.
He added that the parents, who were present at the scene, were found in deep shock and trauma.
Jimoh explained that preliminary findings suggested the fire might have resulted from negligence during cooking activities, though a full investigation was ongoing.
He further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, had ordered a thorough and discreet investigation to ascertain the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the fire outbreak.
“The command has commenced investigation into the tragic fire incident that occurred on March 18, 2026, at No. 1 Olaribigbe Street, Zion Area, Ode-Aye, in Okitipupa Local Government Area.
“The Divisional Police Officer in Ode-Aye has been directed to cordon off the scene, obtain statements from relevant witnesses, and collaborate with the Federal Fire Service to determine the extent and origin of the fire,” he added.
The police command commiserated with the bereaved family and urged members of the public to exercise caution in handling fire and cooking appliances to prevent similar tragedies.