A heartbreaking incident occurred in Leslie, Mpumalanga, South Africa, where a man lost his life after setting himself, his partner, and their two-year-old child on fire during a heated argument.

According to the police, the man, identified as 30-year-old John Masuku, poured petrol on himself and his partner, who was carrying their toddler at the time. He then set the fuel on fire. Thankfully, the woman was able to run away and find help from nearby relatives.

Reports say the tragic event happened after Masuku accused his partner of cheating. The argument turned violent and ended in flames. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, and all three victims were taken to the hospital. Due to the severity of the burns, the toddler had to be transferred to a special medical center for better care. Sadly, Masuku was declared dead when he arrived at the hospital.

Police have launched a case of attempted murder. The mother and her child are still in the hospital, where they are receiving treatment and slowly recovering from the burns.

Speaking on the matter, Provincial Police Commissioner Maj-Gen Zeph Mkhwanazi strongly condemned the act. He encouraged people to seek peaceful ways to settle personal issues. He said violence is never the right answer and reminded the public that professional help is available for those going through emotional or relationship problems.