Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Fire in Downtown Johannesburg Kills 7 by Associated Press JOHANNESBURG -- South African authorities say seven people have died in a fire in downtown Johannesburg. The city's emergency services department said a crane was used to rescue more than 50 people from the roof of the building during the fire on Wednesday. It says five people were rushed to hospital. South African media say some people were treated for smoke inhalation. Authorities are investigating the cause.