Tragic house fire kills 12, including 9 children
By Xinhua News Agency, November 18, 2025Twelve people, including nine children, died in a house fire in the Turkistan region of southern Kazakhstan, the Kazinform news agency reported Tuesday, November 18, 2025, citing the regional Department of Emergency Situations.
The blaze broke out in a two-story private residential house in the village of Algabas in the Zhetysai District and was fully extinguished by firefighters.
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Rescuers evacuated three unconscious people from the house, who remain in intensive care. Twelve bodies, including nine children, were found inside the residence. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigations are ongoing.
In response to the tragedy, the Kazakh government has established a special commission to investigate the incident.
The commission includes representatives from the Ministries of Emergency Situations, Internal Affairs, Health, and Labour, as well as local regional officials.
Authorities have pledged to provide support to the victims’ families, including medical assistance, psychological counselling, and social aid.
The fire has sparked concern over fire safety measures in rural areas of Kazakhstan. Officials said emergency responders acted quickly to contain the blaze, but the extent of the fire and the presence of combustible materials in the house contributed to the high number of casualties.
Local authorities and the Department of Emergency Situations continue to monitor the situation and have called on residents to exercise caution and ensure proper safety standards in private homes.
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Community leaders have also offered condolences and support to the families affected, emphasising the importance of public awareness about fire hazards.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of fire safety in residential areas and the vulnerability of children and other residents during such emergencies.
The Kazakh government has vowed a thorough investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future, and the nation mourns the loss of the 12 victims, including nine children.