Devastating early morning blaze destroys 11 houses in Old Harbour

The blaze was first reported at approximately 3:12 am at premises 30 Burke Road, prompting an immediate response from firefighters from both the Old Harbour and Spanish Town fire stations. A team of 19 fire personnel, led by District Officer Assistant Superintendent L. Banfield, arrived at the scene to find flames engulfing the wooden structures.

Firefighters battled tirelessly to bring the inferno under control, eventually managing to subdue the blaze and carry out cooling-down operations to prevent any further outbreaks.

The fire consumed eleven board houses that housed multiple families, along with three motor vehicles — two cars and a Nissan van — that were parked at the gate of the premises. The van and cars were completely destroyed in the intense heat.

According to a preliminary report, Sherika Hawes, 41, who serves as the caretaker of the property, confirmed that the premises were primarily occupied by family members. In what officials are calling a small mercy, all occupants have been accounted for, and there were no reports of casualties or injuries.

However, the estimated cost of the damage remains unknown at this time, as fire personnel are unable to determine the exact cause of the fire pending further investigations.

The fire has left a number of persons homeless, with families now seeking shelter with relatives and neighbours. Several state authorities have been notified and is expected to provide assistance to the displaced residents.

Miss Hawes and other family members have been advised to visit the Old Harbour Police Station to make a formal report as investigations into the source of the blaze continue.

At the time of publishing a team of firefighters are currently on location conducting further investigation to determine the cause of the fire.