Tragic Fire Ravages Old Road Chugbor Community, Leaving Dozens Homeless

A devastating fire swept through the Old Road Chugbor community on Saturday afternoon, July 12, 2025, destroying multiple homes, small businesses, and displacing several families in a matter of hours. The blaze, which started in the early afternoon, quickly spread due to strong winds and the close proximity of structures in the densely populated neighborhood. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of panic and despair as residents struggled to salvage belongings while thick black smoke and roaring flames consumed their homes and shops. The fast-moving fire left little time for most occupants to react, forcing many to flee with only the clothes on their backs. Emergency responders from the Liberia National Fire Service arrived on the scene shortly after the alarm was raised, but the intensity of the flames, coupled with high winds and inadequate access to the inner parts of the community, made it extremely difficult to bring the fire under control. Firefighters worked tirelessly for hours to contain the inferno, managing to prevent it from spreading further, but by then, significant damage had already been done. Several structures primarily made of zinc and wood were completely destroyed. An estimated 25 households and at least 10 small businesses were affected, according to preliminary assessments by local authorities and the Liberia National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA). “This is a heartbreaking situation,” said Mr. Nathaniel Kumeh, a community leader. “Many of our residents have lost everything homes, livelihoods, savings. The impact is deep and far-reaching.” Official at the Liberia National Fire Service  explained the challenges faced during the response. “Our teams responded swiftly, but the fire spread too fast. The materials used to build many of the homes contributed to the intensity. We did our best under difficult circumstances to contain the fire and minimize further destruction,” he said. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Unconfirmed reports suggest that it may have started from an electrical fault in one of the homes, though authorities have yet to officially determine the source. In the aftermath of the blaze, displaced residents have found temporary refuge with neighbors, relatives, and in nearby public buildings. Humanitarian organizations and government agencies, including the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, are mobilizing relief supplies such as mattresses, food, water, clothing, and temporary shelter materials. Local leaders have called on the government and the general public to support the affected families during this difficult time. Several community-based organizations have already begun organizing donation drives and food distribution initiatives. As the community of Chugbor reels from the tragedy, calls for improved urban planning, better fire safety education, and stronger enforcement of building codes have been renewed.