A fire which started at Port Mourant, Corentyne just before 10 last night completely destroyed two houses and the owner of one of them died.
Stabroek News was told that the fire started at the residence belonging to Tokant Deokharan, 44, a teacher who the Guyana Fire Service today confirmed has died.
The fire destroyed Deokharan’s and his neighbour’s house.
A nearby lumber yard was also under threat but firefighters were able to contain the blaze.
Residents last evening expressed frustration at the fire service since as of 11 pm only one fire tender was at the location.
A release from the Guyana Fire Service follows:
The Guyana Fire Service is currently investigating the circumstances which led to a massive blaze in Port Mourant last night.
At 10:17 p.m. last evening, the Fire Service was alerted to a fire at Manager’s Quarters, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice.
Water tenders #74, #78, and seven (7) firefighters under the command of Section Leader Mainty from the Rose Hall Fire Station immediately responded.
Upon arrival firefighters observed two buildings fully engulfed in flames and smoke.
The building of origin was a one-storey wooden and concrete house owned by 43-year-old Asti Deoaarran of the United States and occupied by 43-year-old Tookant Deoaarran.
As a result of the fire, Tookant Deoaarran perished, and the building and its contents were destroyed.
Also affected by the blaze was a two-storey wooden and concrete house located in the same compound and in close proximity to the building of origin, which was owned and occupied by 75-year-old Ameena Bacchus.
That building was also destroyed, leaving the woman homeless.
Three jets working from Water Tenders #74 and #78 tank supplies were used to contain and subsequently extinguish the fire.
The Guyana Fire Service extends its condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Tookant Deoarran.
Fire prevention officials will investigate until the cause of the blaze is determined.
Citizens are reminded to make premises safe against the risks of fires by equipping homes and businesses with fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and smoke alarms.
