Paarl Hospital fire: Suspect's court case delayed amid mental health revelations

A 36-year-old man, now identified as Morne Dumpies, accused of starting the fire at Paarl Provincial Hospital, appeared in the Paarl Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.

The case was postponed to February 5 amid investigations into the cause of the blaze and questions over the suspect’s mental health.

The blaze erupted at the hospital on Tuesday morning, January 27, 2026, forcing the emergency evacuation of patients, staff, and visitors from several floors of the facility. While no injuries were reported, parts of the hospital sustained significant damage as firefighters worked to contain the flames.

Police arrested the man shortly after the fire was brought under control, charging him with arson linked to the incident. According to his charge sheet, he is 36 years old, although he has been widely reported to be 35. 

During his initial court appearance, he was asked whether he required a lawyer or would make use of Legal Aid.

Dumpies struggled to respond after the question was repeated three times, highlighting communication difficulties in court. 

It then emerged that Dumpies may be living with a mental health condition.

The prosecutor in the case told the court: "I have been informed by a family member that the accused is a patient at the psychiatric section of the hospital at the time of the fire. The information does still have to be verified."

Western Cape police have confirmed that the investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

While early assessments initially suggested the fire may have started near an electric car parked adjacent to the hospital and then spread to the building, authorities are continuing to examine all possible causes. 

lilita.gcwabe@inl.co.za