Family’s American Dream Shattered by Tragic Fire
A heartbroken husband has spoken out after a devastating fire claimed the lives of his wife and two young daughters — just as they were about to start a new life in the US.
Aboubacarr Drammeh, a biomedical technologist working in Minnesota, was in the final stages of securing visas for his wife Fatoumatta and their children. The family were set to reunite in America and build a bright future together.
Fire Tears Family Apart
But tragedy struck when a blaze engulfed their flat in Fairisle Close, Clifton, in the early hours of Sunday, 20 November. Three-year-old Fatimah and one-year-old Naeemah died shortly after arriving at Queen’s Medical Centre. Their mother, Fatoumatta, passed away two days later.
Aboubacarr, married to Fatoumatta since 2014, revealed the shattering moment he learned of the horror. “It was 5am when I got the call. I was praying and then saw I’d missed five calls from the children’s grandmother. She was crying, told me the kids didn’t make it and that Fatoumatta was in intensive care,” he said.
He flew back to the UK alone, calling the journey a blur. “All the other times it was exciting because I was going to see my family. This time, it was my worst nightmare.”
Bright Spirits Gone Too Soon
Fatoumatta was described as a gentle, kind, and passionate woman. “She truly believed in her faith and was caring and compassionate,” Aboubacarr said. The family enjoyed baking together, family holidays, and dreamed of giving their children a better life and education.
- Fatimah loved nursery rhymes, Peppa Pig, and playing with friends at The Milford Academy.
- Naeemah, who turned one in July, adored milk and was just beginning to walk confidently.
Fatoumatta had worked with St John Ambulance and in care homes, always focused on helping others and hoping to build a career in women’s health.
The couple’s last chat was just hours before the fire. “We joked about the upcoming trip and the kids coming to America,” Aboubacarr said.
Family Left Shattered
Relatives paid emotional tribute to Fatoumatta and the girls. Uncle Dawda Dibba said, “She cared about people deeply and made you feel like family straight away. Losing the children has broken us all.”
Another uncle added, “We hoped she would pull through, but sadly we lost her too. There’s no recovery from this kind of loss.”
Man Charged With Murder
The devastating fire was ruled deliberate. Jamie Barrow, 31, of Fairisle Close, Clifton, was charged with the murders of Fatoumatta and her children. He appeared in court on Friday and was remanded in custody.
Aboubacarr’s dream of a happy family life in America now lies in ruins, but his moving tribute keeps their memory alive: “They were so happy and full of life. I’ll never forget them.”
