The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), through the Ministry of Justice, has concluded its investigation into the residential fire that occurred on September 21, 2025, at approximately 03:00 hours at the residence of Rt. Gen. Prince C. Johnson, Director of the National Security Agency (NSA).
According to the LNFS, the fire originated in the batteries of the residence’s solar power system after the batteries overheated, producing an electrical short circuit. The LNFS report revealed that heavy accumulation of combustible materials around the battery installation significantly accelerated the spread of the fire.
The LNFS disclosed that no fire safety equipment (e.g. portable extinguishers, smoke detectors, or fixed suppression systems) was found on the premises, and initial attempts to control the blaze by occupants and security personnel were unsuccessful. “These efforts were limited and at one point shifted toward securing parked vehicles rather than extinguishing the ignited batteries,” the LNFS report pointed out.
According to the report, attempts to isolate the power supply were made, but the lack of appropriate extinguishing measures allowed the fire to progress. “There were no signs of foul play; the investigation found no evidence supporting claims of deliberate ignition. The LNFS investigation concludes that the fire was caused by battery overheating that led to an electrical short circuit at the battery terminals, which subsequently ignited adjacent combustible materials.”
The Liberia National Fire Service emphasized that the incident underscores the critical need for proper installation, maintenance and ventilation of solar battery systems, regular removal of combustible debris, and the installation of fire detection and suppression equipment in residential settings.
The Liberia National Fire Service expressed appreciation to all first responders and individuals who assisted during the incident and investigation, and urged home owners, property managers, and the general public to adhere strictly to fire safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.
