A 70-year-old woman has reportedly died following a devastating fire outbreak at Suame Magazine in the Ashanti Region.
The fire reportedly broke out in the early hours of Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the busy commercial and automobile repair enclave, destroying several wooden structures, metal containers, vehicles, and spare parts.
According to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the blaze was first reported at about 3:22 a.m., prompting a rapid response from fire crews at the Breman and Komfo Anokye Fire Stations.
Firefighters arrived at the scene within minutes but found the fire already well-developed and spreading quickly across the area.
The deceased, identified as Madam Bawama Naya, was reportedly trapped inside one of the affected structures and burned to death before she could be rescued. Her body was later retrieved and handed over to police for preservation and investigation.
Fire officers managed to bring the blaze under control after nearly an hour of intense firefighting, preventing further destruction to nearby shops and vehicles. However, several properties, including vehicles and engines, were completely destroyed.
The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, with investigations ongoing.
Authorities have meanwhile urged traders and operators in industrial areas to strictly observe fire safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.
