An early morning fire yesterday damaged Chase Academy, located on Parade Street, Kingston.
Three classrooms and the office area were damaged in the fire, which started shortly after 2am in the three-storey building.
William Arthur, a security guard at the school, told Stabroek News that just around 2.15am he observed thick smoke coming from the office area. Upon investigating, he noticed that the smoke originated in what he described as the waiting area.
Arthur said he immediately made his way to the first floor and turned off the main switch, thereby cutting power to the building.
He said this seemed to result in a reduction in the amount of smoke seen.
He then tried to break the door to get inside but was unable to and the fire grew.
He said in about half an hour, firemen arrived at the scene and were able to eventually contain the fire, “otherwise you would not have seen the building.”
Kendrea Drakes, a neighbour who called the fire service, said she kept trying until she was able to notify fire officials about the fire.
Fire Chief Marlon Gentle said an investigation was ongoing to determine the origin of the fire.
Henry Chase, owner of the secondary school, said in a telephone interview that a contractor was called and he was assured that the school will be ready for September, once schools can reopen.
He told Stabroek News that he will bounce back bigger and better prepared for the new academic school year.
Chase also shared his appreciation for the outpouring of love and concern he received in wake of the fire.
