Tragic Fire Claims Lives at Sri Lankan Elderly Care Home: Owner Detained

A catastrophic fire at an elderly care home in Sri Lanka has led to the tragic loss of 12 lives, with seven others injured. The incident occurred in Anguruwatota, prompting the arrest of the facility's owner as investigations unfold. Over 70 residents were present during the blaze, marking this as one of the worst fire-related tragedies in recent history on the island. Authorities are still determining the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting a possible gas cylinder explosion. The community has rallied to provide temporary shelter for the survivors.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 17:10 IST

Devastating Incident at Elderly Care Facility

Colombo: A tragic fire at an elderly care home in Sri Lanka has resulted in the deaths of at least 12 individuals, with seven others sustaining injuries, as reported by local authorities on Thursday.

The fire broke out around 5:30 PM on Wednesday at the Mawpiya Sevana Elderly Care Home located in Anguruwatota, approximately 65 kilometers southeast of Colombo in the Kalutara district.

According to police reports, 10 residents were discovered deceased at the scene, while two others died from their injuries after being transported to Horana Base Hospital.

The owner of the privately operated facility was taken into custody on Thursday as investigations into the incident are ongoing.

At the time of the fire, over 70 elderly residents were present in the care home.

Authorities have described this incident as the most severe fire-related tragedy in recent memory on the island.

A total of 51 residents were successfully rescued and are currently being housed temporarily at a nearby school.

Seven individuals remain hospitalized due to their injuries, as stated by police.

The fire was extinguished with the help of both residents and law enforcement.

A magisterial inquiry led by Horana Magistrate Lakmini Vidanagamage was conducted, during which charred remains, including that of a cat, were recovered from the wreckage.

Initial investigations indicated that a gas cylinder explosion might have played a role in the rapid spread of the fire; however, the definitive cause has yet to be established.

Police confirmed that inquiries into the incident are still in progress.