The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS),has released its final investigative report into the September 21, 2025, residential fire at the home of Retired General Prince C. Johnson, Director of the National Security Agency (NSA). According to the report, the fire which broke out around 3:00 a.m. was triggered by overheating in the batteries of the residence’s solar power system, resulting in an electrical short circuit that quickly spread to nearby combustible materials. The LNFS findings revealed that the heavy accumulation of flammable items around the battery installation area significantly contributed to the intensity and rapid spread of the blaze.
Investigators also determined that no fire safety equipment, such as portable extinguishers, smoke detectors, or automatic suppression systems, was present in the home at the time of the incident. Initial efforts by occupants and security personnel to contain the fire were unsuccessful. According to the report, those attempts soon shifted toward safeguarding parked vehicles rather than directly extinguishing the burning battery system. Although there were attempts to cut off the power supply, the absence of adequate firefighting tools made it impossible to prevent the flames from spreading. The LNFS report also dismissed claims of foul play, stating that there was no evidence of deliberate ignition or sabotage.
“The investigation concludes that the fire was caused by battery overheating that led to an electrical short circuit at the battery terminals, which subsequently ignited adjacent combustible materials,” the statement emphasized. The Fire Service is meanwhile warning the public of the growing risks associated with improper installation and poor maintenance of solar battery systems, particularly as more households transition to renewable energy sources. “This incident underscores the critical need for proper installation, maintenance, and ventilation of solar battery systems, regular removal of combustible debris, and the installation of fire detection and suppression equipment in residential settings,” the LNFS statement read.
The Liberia National Fire Service extended appreciation to all first responders, community members, and personnel who assisted in managing the situation and supporting the subsequent investigation. As Liberia continues to promote renewable energy adoption, the LNFS has urged homeowners, property managers, and the public to comply strictly with fire safety regulations to avert similar tragedies in the future.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
