HARIANEXPRESS – A food stall in Istana Gebang’s parking area caught fire on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, due to an alleged unextinguished stove. The incident resulted in significant material losses but thankfully no casualties or injuries.
The fire’s presumed cause was a stove left on by the owner, Wasiati, who departed for a socialization event. This incident occurred at her food stall, which is located in the parking area of Istana Gebang, Jalan Sultan Agung, Blitar City, East Java.
Agus, a fellow vendor at the location, stated that several merchants, including the victim, left their stalls around 09:30 AM WIB. They were attending an invitation for a socialization activity on illegal cigarette eradication at the Satpol PP Blitar City office.
Agus mentioned, “Several vendors including the victim went to fulfill the socialization invitation at the Satpol PP Blitar City office. I happened to be representing my wife. I remained open.”
Around 10:00 AM WIB, a customer near the location heard sounds resembling something burning from a closed stall. Agus and other residents promptly investigated the source of the noise.
“We forced open the stall door. Inside, the fire was already large,” Agus said on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
Residents swiftly responded, attempting to extinguish the flames using a light fire extinguisher (APAR) and water hoses. Their concerted efforts successfully contained the fire before it could spread to other closely situated stalls.
Bayu Wijayanto, Head of the Blitar City Fire Department UPT, reported receiving the fire alert via emergency service 112 at approximately 10:08 AM WIB. Subsequently, two fire trucks were immediately dispatched to the scene.
Firefighters managed the incident from 10:13 AM to 10:28 AM WIB, which was then followed by cooling operations. This additional step was taken to ensure no embers remained that could potentially reignite the blaze.
“It is suspected to be negligence in cooking instant noodles that was left behind and the stove was forgotten to be turned off,” stated Bayu.
Based on official data from the officers, the affected stall was identified as belonging to Wasiati, with estimated material losses amounting to Rp15 million. Fortunately, the incident did not result in any casualties or injuries.
This fire became a significant concern due to the close proximity of the stalls. Prompt detection and handling of the blaze were crucial in preventing a potentially larger fire from engulfing more vendor premises.
