One dies in Badulla shop fire

Two vehicle spare-parts shops at two adjacent three storey buildings at Cocawatta street, Badulla were gutted in a fire around 1.45 am on August 12.

The owner of one shop caught up in an explosion caused by the fire was injured and he succumbed to his injuries on admission to the Badulla Hospital by several people who rushed to the scene.

He was identified as Hemantha Cooray, a father of two of Badulla.

They had seen him on the road beside an overturned motorcycle.

The Badulla Municipal Fire Brigade doused the fire assisted by police, the public and three fire engines.

Several adjoining buildings had been partially damaged with cracked walls and doors. Badulla police are investigating.