The suspect arrested for allegedly starting at Paarl Hospital on Tuesday morning, 27 January, has been identified as Morné Dampies, a patient in the psychiatric section of the hospital.

The 35-year-old appeared at the Paarl Magistrates Court on Thursday, 29 January, charged with arson.

It is alleged that he made a fire in a waste bin that was next to the hospital, which in turn caused a nearby car to catch alight. This then spread to the side of the hospital, resulting in significant damage to the outpatient section of the facility.

The State alleges that the accused is linked to the crime by video footage and eyewitnesses.

His case has been postponed until 5 February 2026 to verify whether he needs to be referred for mental evaluation, and to get further bail information.

A relative of Dampies disclosed to the prosecutor that he is a patient at the hospital.

The fire on Tuesday resulted in a full-scale emergency operation, with hundreds of patients being evacuated and transferred to other hospitals, including those in operating theatres and mothers who were in the process of giving birth. Thankfully, no injuries were recorded.

The MEC of Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger, praised the speedy response of the emergency services.

“Thanks to the coordinated response, patients were safely relocated, and no injuries were reported. We are now focused on restoring services as quickly and safely as possible, while ensuring continuity of care for all affected patients.”