Linden Market fire: Body found in debris as probe continues

Hours after a fire of unknown origin ravaged several stalls at the Linden Municipal Market in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), Police discovered the lifeless body of a man near the fire scene.
Dead is Troy Campbell. He was discovered on Thursday morning, with the circumstances surrounding his demise still sketchy. Guyana Times was told that Police investigations have suggested foul play.
The fire at the Linden Market erupted around 20:30h on Wednesday, with smoke and flames engulfing the middle section of the market. Prompt action by the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) contained the blaze to a single area.
Recent incidents have seen fires devastating several markets. In November, portions of the Skeldon and Corriverton markets suffered extensive damage owing to electrical fires sparked by overheated electric fans left plugged in. Efforts are underway to rebuild these markets, with funds allocated for their rehabilitation.
In February of the previous year, the Parika Market fell victim to fire caused by welding activities. The GFS traced fire to a welding operation, where residue ignited nearby combustibles, leading to extensive damage.
Another incident occurred at Charity Market in July 2023, where 25 out of 85 stalls were destroyed by fire originating from an electrical meter.
During firefighting efforts, three senior officers sustained injuries, while stallholders faced substantial financial losses. Construction of a new market, costing $286 million, is underway by Builders Hardware and General Supplies Construction, with completion expected within two months from the awarding of the contract in November 2023. (G9)