Akyempim, a quiet community in Ghana’s Central Region, has been thrown into mourning after a man allegedly set his house on fire, killing his wife and six children in what authorities suspect was a premeditated act.
According to the Ghana National Fire Service, the inferno claimed the lives of the woman, five of her children aged between one and fifteen, and the family’s eldest daughter. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect reportedly locked the victims inside before setting the building ablaze while they were asleep.
Witnesses said the fire broke out in the dead of night, leaving neighbours helpless as the flames rapidly engulfed the structure. In a video shared online, residents were seen retrieving the charred remains of the victims, their bodies burnt beyond recognition — a sight that drew tears and disbelief across the community.
Rescue teams and local volunteers worked frantically through the night to put out the fire and recover the bodies. Hours later, authorities confirmed that the suspect was found dead in a nearby bush, having allegedly taken his own life. His lifeless body was discovered hanging from a tree, reinforcing suspicions of suicide.
The tragedy has left Akyempim in deep sorrow and confusion. Residents described the family as peaceful and hardworking, expressing shock over the horrific turn of events.
While investigations are ongoing, officials said efforts are being made to determine the motive behind the fatal arson, which has become one of the most distressing domestic tragedies recorded in the region this year.
