Man Charged with Murder After Setting Girlfriend and Sister on Fire in Mpumalanga

A 35-year-old man has been charged with two counts of murder after allegedly setting his girlfriend and biological sister ablaze during a domestic altercation in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

The victims, Nompumelelo Gumede (21) and Antoinette Mbali Hills (23), suffered critical burn injuries on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, when the suspect, Mpumelelo Ignitus Hills—who was in a relationship with Gumede and is the brother of Antoinette—allegedly doused a room in petrol and set it on fire.

According to preliminary reports, the incident was sparked by an argument between Hills and Gumede, reportedly over suspicions of infidelity. Antoinette, who was present at the time and reportedly attempted to intervene, was also caught in the flames.

Both women were rushed to a nearby hospital and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where they battled for their lives for over a week. Antoinette succumbed to her injuries on Friday, 1 August 2025, while Nompumelelo passed away two days later, on Sunday, 3 August 2025.

Hills was initially arrested and charged with two counts of attempted murder. He appeared briefly in the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 30 July 2025. Following the deaths of the victims, police have confirmed that the charges have now been upgraded to two counts of murder.

The case has been postponed to Wednesday, 7 August 2025, as investigations continue. Authorities say further charges may be considered depending on the outcome of forensic and witness reports.

Police have described the case as a deeply disturbing act of domestic violence, and local advocacy groups are calling for swift justice.