Fire yesterday gutted a house at 663 East Ruimveldt, leaving about 16 persons homeless, including children.

Esther Braithwaite said she, her three sisters and their families lived in the house, owned by their mother, Esmey Braithwaite. Esther said she was out when the fire started and when she arrived home the building was engulfed by flames and she was unable to save anything.
“Everything gone within a wink, all my children school clothes and important documents. Everything gone for us now. I don’t know how this fire started all I hear is somebody telling me that de house on fire and I run and come. I work nearby so I hustle home, but when I come I couldn’t save anything” Esther lamented.
Another sister, Vanessa Braithwaite, said no one was at home when the fire started. She said she only received a call informing her that the house was on fire.
“I have no idea where I resting my head tonight. All my things burn up and I don’t know where to start” ,Vanessa said with tears streaming down her cheeks.
Esther informed the Chronicle that the house had no electricity and she was sure that the fire was not of electrical origin.
The woman said when she reached on the scene someone told her that the neighbours behind were burning garbage and the fire went out of control.
However, Esther said she is not sure about this and will allow the firemen to determine the cause of the fire.
Although the fire destroyed everything, the families are grateful that no one, including the children were at home. 
Neighbours upon seeing the flames emanating from the house, summoned the fire service, but by the time the firefighters arrived the house was well alight.
The firemen worked on putting out the fire and preventing it from spreading to neighbouring buildings.