Tragedy struck at the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital following a fire that broke out claiming the life of a 35-year-old woman, who was admitted to the female psychiatric ward.

Department of Health spokesperson, Motalatale Modiba, said the deceased was admitted to the hospital last week Thursday. "Gauteng Department of Health can confirm an unfortunate fire incident that occurred at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital's female psychiatric unit which sadly resulted in the passing of a 35-year-old female patient. The mental healthcare user was admitted to the hospital on June 20. She was placed in a seclusion room (on Monday), as part of her prescribed treatment. At around 6.35 pm, smoke and small fire broke out from the seclusion room. Immediate action was taken to safeguard the safety and well-being of patients."

Modiba said the fire was swiftly contained and extinguished by the fire brigade, however, it was unfortunate that the patient in the seclusion room sustained fatal injuries. "17 other patients in the unit were successfully evacuated and temporarily relocated to a different wing of the psychiatric department as a precautionary measure. At this stage, authorities said the cause of the fire is unknown. The incident has been reported to the South African Police Service for further investigation," said Modiba. "The department wishes to extend our deepest condolences to the patient's family as they mourn the sudden passing of their daughter. Both the bereaved family and the families of the 17 patients will be taken through a debriefing. Counselling services will also be made available to them, " he concluded.