At least 11 individuals have lost their lives following a fire at an elderly care home in Sri Lanka. The blaze occurred on the evening of June 3, 2026, at approximately 5:30 pm, at the Mawpiya Sevana Elderly Care Home situated in Anguruwatota, which is approximately 65 km southeast of Colombo.

According to police reports, the fatalities include ten residents who were found deceased at the facility. An eleventh victim succumbed to injuries shortly after being admitted to the Horana Base Hospital. The incident has left the community in mourning, as families grapple with the tragic loss.

Seven additional individuals have sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention. Emergency responders, aided by residents, managed to extinguish the fire, preventing further casualties and damage to the facility.

Emergency Services Respond to the Situation

The local police and fire services were alerted immediately after the fire broke out. They swiftly deployed resources to the scene to bring the situation under control. Their efforts, combined with the quick actions of the residents, ensured the fire did not spread further.

In total, 51 residents were safely evacuated from the premises during the emergency response. The authorities have since initiated a magisterial inquiry into the incident to ascertain the cause of the fire and determine any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Initial assessments suggest that a gas cylinder may have exploded, contributing to the rapid advancement of the fire. However, officials have confirmed that a definitive cause of the fire is still under investigation. They are working meticulously to gather all necessary evidence and testimonies.

Residents Temporarily Relocated

Following the incident, the surviving residents have been temporarily relocated to a nearby school. The authorities are in the process of arranging a more permanent and safer accommodation for those affected by the tragic event. This is being done to ensure their well-being and provide them with the necessary support during this difficult time.

Psychological support services are also being considered for the survivors, given the traumatic nature of the incident. Counselling and mental health services will be crucial as these individuals navigate the aftermath of such a devastating event.

The local community has shown solidarity, with various organisations stepping forward to offer assistance to the survivors. This act of compassion demonstrates the strength and resilience of the community during challenging times.

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