MARACHA — Six members of the same family have died after lightning struck their home and ignited a fire in Oleba Town Council, Maracha District, West Nile Police have confirmed.
The tragic incident occurred in Nyanza Cell at about 5:00 a.m. on Saturday during a heavy downpour.
West Nile Regional Police spokesperson Josephine Angucia confirmed the incident, describing it as a devastating tragedy that claimed the lives of an entire family.
“The information we have indicates that six people died after lightning struck their home, causing a fire in Oleba Town Council, Maracha District,” Angucia said.
According to preliminary reports, the deceased include the family head, his wife and their four children.
Local leaders said the lightning strike set the family’s house ablaze, leaving the occupants with little chance of escape.
Oleba Town Council LCIII Chairperson Robert Angupi said the incident happened during an early morning storm, adding that local residents rushed to the scene but were unable to save the victims.
By Saturday morning, the bodies were still at the family home as police and other authorities carried out the necessary procedures before they could be taken for postmortem examinations.
Police have since launched investigations into the incident, while local leaders have expressed condolences to the bereaved relatives and urged residents to observe lightning safety precautions during the ongoing rainy season.
