A TIGHT-KNIT community in the West Cross area of Swansea has come together to bid a heartfelt farewell to a father and his three-year-old son, who tragically lost their lives in a devastating house fire. Naemat Lawa Esmael, 51, and his young son Muhammed Esmael were victims of the unfortunate incident that shook the neighborhood.
Yesterday, an inquest into their deaths was formally opened at Swansea’s Guildhall, presided over by acting senior coroner Colin Phillips. The hearing revealed that on Saturday, July 1, at 1.19pm, the fire service and South Wales Police were summoned to the Esmael family home on Gonhill following reports of a fire. Upon entering the residence, emergency responders discovered an upstairs bedroom engulfed in flames.
Heartbreakingly, Muhammed was pronounced dead at the scene, having succumbed to the fire and its ensuing combustion, as determined by the proceedings. His father, Naemat, was found with severe burn injuries and immediately rushed to Morriston Hospital for urgent treatment. Tragically, he succumbed to multiple organ failure and the extensive burns, accounting for 81% of his body, as well as severe inhalation injuries. The final inquest is scheduled to be heard on January 9, 2024.
In the wake of the initial inquest, a funeral prayers service was held at Swansea Mosque and Islamic Community Centre, located on St Helen’s Road. Commencing with Dhuhr, the noon prayers, the service included an address by Mufti Eunus Ali, the Imam of Swansea Mosque, who fondly remembered Naemat, saying, “He would literally be driving along in his car and would stop just to say salaam to me. This was the sort of person he was.”
Sheikh Mustafa Rasalan, the Imam of Sketty Mosque, also delivered a speech, followed by a collective prayer led by Swansea University’s chaplain, Dr Mohsen El Beltagi. The service culminated with the observance of the Janazah, the funeral prayer.
Lara Esmael, Naemat’s son, conveyed a touching statement during the ceremony. “Today, as we gather to say our final goodbyes to my beloved father, Naemat Lawa Esmael, and my dear brother Muhammed, I want to take a moment to remember the incredible individuals they were. My father was a pillar of strength, a loving husband, a devoted father. He taught me the values of kindness, compassion, and perseverance. His laughter filled our home with joy, and his wisdom guided us through life’s challenges.”
“Muhammed, my little brother, brought sunshine wherever he went. His infectious smile and playful spirit brightened our days. He was full of curiosity, always eager to learn and explore. Today, we honor that memory by cherishing the precious moments we shared and carrying their love in our hearts. Though they may no longer be with us physically, their spirits will forever live on. Thank you for being here to support our family during this difficult time. Your presence means the world to us. May Allah grant my father and brother a place in Jannah and grant us all strength and patience in the days to come.”
Marwan Abdul Kadir, chairman of the Kurdish Community in Swansea, also expressed gratitude and solidarity on behalf of the community. “Today, we stand together in unity, representing the Kurdish community in Swansea, to express our heartfelt appreciation to the various authorities and organizations that have extended their support to the Lawa family.”
Kadir continued, “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the police, fire services, hospital staff, coroner’s office, and hospital chaplains for their dedicated efforts and professionalism in dealing with the tragic incident that took the lives of Naemat and Muhammed. Your support and expertise have been invaluable during this challenging period.”
He further acknowledged the unwavering support from Swansea Council’s leader, the Member of Senedd for Swansea and Gower, and the West Cross councillors, along with the generosity and assistance provided by various community organizations such as Sketty Mosque, University Mosque, City Mosque, Unite Welfare Aid, and the Sameera Foundation. Kadir also expressed gratitude to Claire Anna Mitchell for initiating a successful GoFundMe campaign that has raised over £27,000 to provide financial assistance to the grieving family.
“In conclusion, we stand united as a community, supporting one another through this challenging period of grief and loss. We express our deepest condolences to the Lawa family and pray that Allah grants them strength and solace during this difficult time,” Kadir added.
To offer support to the family, a fundraising initiative has been launched, already amassing over £27,000. Donations have poured in from various sources, including the Sameera Foundation (£3,000), WACAS (£4,000), United Welfare Aid (£500), and the Kurdish community (£7,000). To contribute, please visit the following link: [insert link].
This devastating tragedy has left a lasting impact on the community, but their resilience and unity serve as a testament to their strength during this difficult time. As they continue to mourn the loss of Naemat and Muhammed, the outpouring of support and compassion from both local authorities and organizations highlights the power of solidarity in times of sorrow.
