Three injured as transformer explodes in New Doornfontein, Gauteng

Three people were injured after a room collapsed, caused by a transformer fire in New Doornfontein in Johannesburg. 

The City of Johannesburg Emergency Medical Services (EMS) said the incident took place on Monday morning at around 6 am at Lower Railway Road, at the corner of Staib Street. 

EMS spokesperson Xolile Khumalo said emergency personnel arrived to find an electrical box on fire and immediately began firefighting operations. 

“The transformer was housed in a small utility storage room." 

“The explosion allegedly resulted in the collapse of the room and an adjoining boundary wall.”

While some social media posts suggested a building collapse and earlier reports blamed a gas explosion, EMS confirmed the fire was electrical in origin. 

According to her, all nearby residents have been accounted for.

She confirmed that some residents have been injured.

“Three people were injured and transported by Gauteng Provincial Government ambulance services to nearby hospitals.”

Khumalo said the transformer-related matter has been handed over to City Power. 

She said EMS remains on the scene conducting further investigations.

The cause of the incident has not yet been determined.

*This is a developing story.*

IOL News