Fire destroys storage bond at Eccles, radio tower affected

A ferocious fire tore through a building at Lot 70 Industrial Site, Eccles East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Tuesday evening thus resulting in extensive damage and halting operations at Kaieteur Radio.
The fire reportedly started at about 17:00hrs on the western side of the building and quickly consumed the structure, spreading to the eastern section. The facility reportedly housed a storage bond for Bena’s Shoe Store on one side and was rented to Chinese nationals on the other.
When Guyana Times arrived at the scene, firefighters were engaged in a fierce battle against the blaze using the Guyana Fire Service’s (GFS) Bronto Skylift hydraulic platform.
Despite their best efforts, the fire continued to spread rapidly through the multi-purpose structure, threatening nearby properties and sending thick black smoke spiralling into the sky.
Chinese nationals could be seen rushing to save whatever belongings and goods they could carry as the flames closed in. Piles of salvaged items lined the street as they fought to minimise their losses.
One firefighter reportedly sustained an injury while battling the inferno and was rushed to the hospital for medical attention. The extent of their injuries is currently unknown.
The building is owned by Glenn Lall, Publisher of Kaieteur News and CEO of Kaieteur Radio. The fire has significantly impacted the station’s operations leaving its transmission off-air.
Workers attached to businesses nearby described the terrifying scene. “The fire spread so fast, and the heat was unbearable. It’s heartbreaking to watch these people lose everything,” one eyewitness recounted.
Firefighters remained on the scene late into the evening, working tirelessly to bring the fire under control. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the blaze, and investigations are expected to begin once the flames are fully extinguished.