‘This is crippling’ - Fire leaves 10 homeless in Old Capital

Maurice Ellis is not likely to forget Wednesday, April 29 any time soon.

Ellis, along with nine other persons, was left homeless by a fire that destroyed the five-apartment dwelling they all called home.

When the news team visited what was left of the dwelling on Salt Pond Road in Spanish Town, St Catherine, one could feel the sadness of the residents.

While grateful that no lives were lost, they were hit hard by the reality that they were left only with the clothes they were wearing.

"I am shocked by this fire as it left me broke and very sad as to how I will survive. I was hit by the sad news after I left the bicycle shop. I was told by someone that there was sad news at home as a pure fire deh ya," Ellis said.

Ellis, who said that he is an artist and stamp collector, said he lost everything in the inferno.

"This is wicked as I don't know where to start. I lose fridge, stove, bed, food and many pieces of art, unique stamps and money; this is crippling," Ellis said between sobs.

Kerhan Wright was equally disconsolate as he tried to process the unfortunate event.

"My wife was taken to the hospital after she fainted after the fire. I was told that about 2 p.m. cries of 'fire' were heard," said Wright. When he got to the place he used to call home, he saw it burnt out.

"She (his wife) drop down after that, everything gone," Wright lamented.

GREAT SETBACK

Wright, an electrician, said that he has lived at the premises for the past 17 years and that the fire is a great setback.

"There are 10 persons here homeless, which include three children now without food, clothing and shelter; we need help urgently," Wright said.

But even at a time when so much attention is being placed on stopping the spread of COVID-19, there may be hope for the displaced residents.

Councillor Enos Lawrence of the De la Vega City division said that a plan has been put into action to assist them.

''I must say first that I am disheartened by the loss and displacement of the occupants. I have started to work with the St Catherine Municipal Corporation Poor Relief Department to get immediate assistance for them," Lawrence said.

Lawrence said that while the department is stretched at this time, extra efforts will be made to assist as best as possible.

Ellis said that he would be very glad for any support given at this time.

"I am thankful for the assistance that we are going to get, as it is very stressful. I was given a place to sleep last night (Wednesday), so tonight (Thursday) is another struggle, therefore, any assistance is appreciated," Ellis said.

The Spanish Town police have acknowledged the receipt of a report on the fire and an investigation is under way. The cause of the blaze is yet to be determined.

It was confirmed that the building and its contents were not insured. An estimate of the damage has not been ascertained.