Funeral prayer held for Swansea house fire victims as family releases new pictures

A dad and his 3 year old son died in Saturday's blaze

Author: Gavin RutterPublished 6th Jul 2023

The family of a Swansea man and his young son killed in a house fire have released photos of them together.

Naemat Lawa Esmael, 51, and 3 year old Muhammed Esmael died following a blaze at their home in the West Cross area of Swansea on Saturday.

A 13-year-old girl and 39-year-old woman were also treated for smoke inhalation.

Naemat Lawa Esmael, 51, and his son Muhammed, 3.

A funeral prayer was held today at Swansea Mosque and Islamic Community Centre, led by Naemat's sibling.

Members of the community were encouraged to join the prayer and pay their respects to the victims.

Describing Naemat, Mustafa Raslan, the inhouse Imam of Sketty Mosque, said: "He used to do his own business - painting and housework - and he'd been to the houses of many, many people here in Swansea. Everyone used to respect him, everyone used to love him."

Both bodies are due to be repatriated to Iraq following the service, with the family due to return there too.

The cause of the fire remains unknown.

Detective Inspector Carl Price, from South Wales Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the young boy who sadly died at a house fire in West Cross, Swansea.

“An investigation is continuing to establish the exact circumstances of the fire.

“We wish to acknowledge the efforts of the local community for the support being offered and provided to the family following this tragic incident.”

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