Bhubaneswar, May 6: The death toll in the fire at Basant Villa Apartment in Laxmisagar has risen to three, following the passing of a minor girl who had suffered severe injuries. She succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, confirmed her family members.

Earlier Wednesday, a devastating fire broke out in the early hours at Basant Villa Apartment, claiming the lives of caretaker Sulabha Behera and security guard Biswajit Behera. Both reportedly died from suffocation and burn injuries. The minor girl, critically injured in the blaze, was rushed to the hospital but later died, bringing the total fatalities to three.

Preliminary reports indicate that the fire originated from a short circuit in the electrical panel board in the guard room. The incident occurred around 4 a.m., while most residents were asleep.