A sudden explosion inside a refrigerator triggered a devastating house fire in Belagavi’s Savata Galli area around midnight on Monday, killing four members of a single family and critically injuring two others, police said. The blast and the rapidly spreading flames left occupants trapped inside the home, and by the time neighbours reached the scene much of the house was engulfed in fire. Local residents later helped with rescue efforts and transported the two critically injured victims to hospital.
Police identified the deceased as Gajanan Dhamone, 65; Roshan Dhamone, 21; Sarada Dhamone, 45; and Bharati Dhamone, 50. The injured have been named as Priya Dhamone, 28, and Ganga Dhamone, 25. Authorities warned that some early reports show variations in the spelling and details of victims’ names, and that official records are being verified as the investigation continues.
Initial inquiries by police indicate the blaze began after a refrigerator exploded inside the house and spread within minutes to multiple rooms, leaving occupants little chance to escape. Neighbours reported hearing a loud sound at the time of the blast and arriving immediately to find the home on fire; they assisted in removing the two survivors who were critically burned before they were taken to hospital. The fire also caused significant structural damage to the property.
Local sources said the family had placed a Ganesh idol in the house to observe Ganesh Chaturthi; after dinner members of the household had gone to sleep when the explosion occurred. Police said the incident falls under the jurisdiction of the Belagavi Market police station and that initial on-site inquiries are under way.
Investigators have not yet determined the precise cause of the refrigerator explosion. Police said mechanical failure, an electrical short circuit, or other factors could be responsible, and that they have launched a formal probe. A forensic examination has been deemed essential and has been requested to establish the sequence of events and the exact cause of the blast.
Authorities urged the public to await official updates and cautioned against circulating unverified information while the investigation proceeds. The deaths and injuries in this incident highlight ongoing safety concerns about household appliances and electrical wiring, especially during festival periods when homes may be busier than usual.
