A New Year’s Eve celebration ended in devastation after a family home in Gitaru was completely destroyed by fire in an incident linked to fireworks.
According to reports, the family had made arrangements to light fireworks as part of ushering in the New Year and was aware they would be used, but they did not anticipate that the celebration would turn tragic. The fire reportedly broke out when a firework was ignited inside the house, triggering explosions and thick smoke before flames spread rapidly through the structure .
Eyewitnesses and relatives said the blaze escalated within minutes, leaving the family with little time to rescue their belongings. Firefighters from Limuru responded to the incident, but by the time they arrived, the timber-built house had already been reduced to ashes, destroying furniture, clothing and other household items .
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported, though the family was left displaced and counting heavy losses. Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the fire and to determine whether fireworks safety guidelines were followed .
The incident has reignited public debate over the use of fireworks in residential areas, with residents and leaders calling for stricter regulation and greater caution, especially where children are present.
