'We see where our son died every day' – Durban father after twins fall into Homii building lift shaft
A Durban father is demanding answers after his eight-year-old son died and his twin daughter was critically injured when they fell into a lift shaft at a Homii residential building on Pixley KaSeme Street on October 18.
Khaya Dlamini says his family’s world has been torn apart since the tragedy and that the pain is made worse by what he calls silence from Homii management.
“We are traumatised and sadly we are still staying in the very same apartment,” Dlamini said. “We see where our son died and where our daughter got injured every day.”
The twins, who had been playing in the building at the time, allegedly fell into the shaft. The boy died at the scene, while his sister was rushed to hospital, where she remains in intensive care.
Dlamini says his grief has turned into frustration as he struggles to understand how such a tragedy could happen and why he has heard nothing from those responsible for the property.
”Homii has not contacted us as parents who lost a child,’ he said. “I need answers. I need footage so I can have closure. I need someone to be held accountable. I need justice.”
He added that each day in the apartment is a constant reminder of what happened. The sound of the lift, the hallway leading to the shaft all serve as painful symbols of loss.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson said the police are investigating.
“Police in Durban Central have registered an inquest docket for investigation following an incident in which a boy was playing with his sibling when he reportedly fell into an elevator shaft,” Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said.
Homii Lifestyle Management, released a statement on October 21, confirming the incident.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the parents and their families during this incredibly difficult time,” the company said. “We also extend our sincerest prayers for the recovery of the child that remains in hospital.”
The management said safety remains its highest concern. “We confirm that the safety and wellbeing of all our residents and community members remain our utmost priority.”
Homii also stated that a full investigation into the matter is under way and that it is cooperating with all relevant authorities.
It said the company is willing to provide counselling and emotional support to those affected but said it could not comment further as the matter is now under legal review.
IOL News