Overview
- Police arrested a 35-year-old man on an arson charge, with a first appearance scheduled in the Paarl Magistrates' Court on Thursday, 29 January.
- The fire was reported around 11:17am on Tuesday and was contained by noon to the Day Hospital/Outpatient area after a full evacuation of three floors.
- No injuries were recorded, with hospital teams and Drakenstein Fire and Rescue coordinating the safe relocation of patients from affected areas.
- The Outpatient Department sustained extensive damage, maternity patients were transferred to other facilities, and services are resuming in phases with some elective procedures delayed or moved to alternative sites.
- Early indications point to a vehicle parked next to the building—reported on scene as an electric car—though investigators have not yet finalized the cause, as fire experts highlight lithium‑ion battery risks and praise preparedness.