Four women members of a family were killed and two others were seriously injured after a refrigerator reportedly exploded at their house here early Tuesday, police said.
The incident occurred in Chavat Galli, they said.
The deceased were identified as Ganga Damone (25), Sharada Dhamone (45), Priya Dhamone (28) and Bharati Dhamone (50), police said.
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Gajanan Dhamone (65) and his son Roshan Dhamone (21) sustained serious injuries in the incident and were rushed to a hospital, where they are undergoing treatment, they said.
According to police, preliminary information revealed that the fire reportedly broke out after a refrigerator exploded inside the house. The flames quickly spread throughout the premises, trapping the occupants inside. The victims were unable to escape, resulting in the tragic incident.
The fire was reported within the jurisdiction of the Market Police Station.
{{/usCountry}}The fire was reported within the jurisdiction of the Market Police Station.
{{/usCountry}}Speaking to reporters here, Belagavi Police Commissioner Prakash Nikam said the incident occurred at around 2.30 am on Tuesday. Four women died on the spot due to burn injuries.
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According to him, two other persons -- Gajanan Dhamone and his son -- have been admitted to hospital. The father has suffered around 80 per cent of burn injuries, while his son sustained around 40 per cent burn injuries.
After post-mortem examinations of the four deceased, their bodies would be immediately hand over to their relatives after the procedures are completed.
The FSL team, and officers from HESCOM (Hubli Electricity Supply Company Limited) were examining the incident and trying to ascertain the exact cause.
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"Prima facie, it appears to be a short circuit, but we have to confirm it. The son who survived has told us that he heard a sound that appeared to be from a short circuit. But we will ascertain the exact cause after the FSL team," the commissioner added.
Further investigation is underway.