At least 38 people have been killed and 69 injured in a fire overnight at an overcrowded prison in Burundi.

At least 38 people have been killed and 69 people injured in an overcrowded prison in Gitega, the political capital of Burundi, early Tuesday morning. The fire was prompted by an electrical short-circuit, and most victims were taken to hospital.

A massive fire tore through an overcrowded prison in Burundi before dawn on Tuesday, killing 38 inmates and seriously injuring 69 others, the country’s vice president said.

At least 38 people have died in a huge fire that tore through an overcrowded prison in Burundi’s political capital, Gitega, says Vice President Prosper Bazombanza.

What people are saying?

ccaseylee There was a blip on NPR about this. What a disgrace to this country letting 38 old people die screaming burning to death!! These authorities should be put in prison for murder. Every person that did not open the cell doors and let them out held accountable.

Patience Atuhaire At least 38 inmates died in a fire at one of the main prisons in Burundi’s capital Gitega, on Tuesday morning. Over 60 others suffered injuries. Most of those affected were men. The prison facility is said to have been overcrowded, and reports say responders were late to arrive.