Massive fire destroys 13 boats docked at Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling

…6 damaged, watchman in custody

A massive fire on Tuesday morning destroyed 13 passenger speed boats and damaged six others docked at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, West Coast Demerara.
According to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), a distress call was received at about 01:49h regarding a fire raging at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, and swift action was taken, with Water Tender #111 and a crew from La Grange Fire Station rushing to the scene. Fire Boat Protector #8 and its crew were also dispatched to combat the blaze.
Upon arrival, firefighters were confronted with the daunting sight of multiple boats engulfed in flames. The fire had rapidly spread, affecting 19 vessels moored at the stelling, and despite valiant efforts, the relentless inferno completely consuming 13 boats and inflicting damage on six others.

Preliminary inquiries conducted by the Police reportedly indicated that the fire originated from a vessel docked on the southern side of the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling. From there the blaze rapidly spread to adjacent boats.
Authorities have taken statements from various individuals, including a watchman responsible for overseeing the vessels. That watchman has been taken into custody at the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Outpost to assist with further investigations. As at press time, however, the cause of the fire remained unknown. (G9)