6 of a family killed as fire engulfs house

A devastating fire tore through a residence in Avtar Nagar in Jalandhar, killing six people, including three children. Police are investigating the cause, suspecting a refrigerator compressor burst, releasing gas that quickly spread in the house and became uncontrollable. Seven people were present in the house at the time of the incident, with another in the outer area, according to Raj Ghai, the elder brother of the owner of the house and one of the deceased. The victims were identified are Yashpal Ghai (65), son Inderpal, daughter-in-law Ruchi, and their three children. The mother, who was outside at the time, is the sole survivor. Neighbours reported hearing a blast-like sound, prompting them to call the fire brigade. However, the children had already suffered serious injuries. DCP Jagmohan Singh confirmed the suspected refrigerator blast as the possible cause but emphasised that the investigation is ongoing.