Popular Liberian social media commentator, Justin Oldpa Yeazehn, alias ‘Prophet Key’ has taken to Facebook with explosive claims that linked Montserrado District #4 Representative Michael Thomas to the tragic fire incident.
The unfriendly fire killed Duport Road Shara Community Chairlady, Mrs. Deiode Davies Garnett and her children.
Prior to her sudden death, the late Deiode was regarded as an emerging representative as the 2029 election ensued.
To this backdrop, there were rumors of ‘foul play’ in the woman’s sudden death with neighbors thinking fearing political rivalry.
Most so, dying at the fire that gutted her residence.
Prophet Key’s allegation comes as authorities launch a full-scale investigation into the night time inferno that occurred around 11 p.m. on Friday, November 14. The incident left at least four people dead and property destroyed.
In a strongly worded Facebook post, Prophet Key wrote: (verbatim) “REPRESENTATIVE MICHAEL THOMAS SAID HE WILL SUE ME BECAUSE I SAID POLICE MUST INVESTIGATE HIM ON THE DEATH OF DUPORT ROAD SHARA COMMUNITY CHAIRLADY… WHEN YOU SUE ME, I WILL EAT SHOW ON YOU, AND YOU WILL BE MORE SUSPICIOUS. REMEMBER, LAWMAKERS ARE KNOWN FOR FIRE OUTBREAK IN THIS COUNTRY.”
Prophet Key further claimed that a family member of the deceased contacted him, urging the Liberia National Police (LNP) to question the lawmaker, suggesting that the blaze may not have been accidental.
“FROM THE LOOK OF THINGS, THIS FIRE OUTBREAK DOESN’T SEEM TO BE A HUMAN ERROR. THE POLICE SHOULD DO A CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION,” he added.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire erupted suddenly at the home of Mrs. Garnett. Residents, assisted by the Liberia Fire Service (LFS), desperately attempted to put out the flames, but the fire rapidly spread as the flames trapped the occupants inside.
Community members later confirmed that Mrs. Garnett’s body was found in the wreckage along three others whose identities were later released to be her children.
Police and Fire Service Investigate
As of early Saturday, authorities have not determined the cause of the fire. Both the Liberia National Fire Service and the Liberia National Police have opened a full investigation to uncover whether the blaze was accidental or allegedly the result of foul play.
The allegations by Prophet Key have intensified public interest in the case, with residents calling for a transparent inquiry.
Meanwhile, emotional scenes unfolded at the site Saturday morning as grieving relatives and community members gathered to mourn the sudden loss of their leader and neighbors.
Meanwhile, the office of Rep. Thomas has threatened legal action against popular Prophet Key over allegations that linked the lawmaker to the tragic fire that claimed the life of Madam Garnett and four family members.
According to Rep. Thomas office, Prophet Key claimed that he was informed by family sources that Rep. Thomas was behind the incident, noting that Madam Garnett was his closest political rival.
The office described the allegation as “reckless and outlandish,” particularly at a time when the family and community are grieving.
“In moments of sorrow, it is disheartening and unacceptable for anyone to exploit tragedy for political gain. We question the motives behind such an accusation when a family is in deep mourning,” the statement added.
The office further said it will “not be deterred by malicious attempts” to damage the lawmaker’s reputation. It is therefore exploring legal options against those making “egregious claims.” Daniel Theophilus Cole/knewsonline.com