A FIRE of unknown origin, on Friday morning, gutted the Guyana Prison Service Bachelor’s Quarters at Parade Street, Kingston, Georgetown, leaving some 30 prison officers displaced.

According to a preliminary report from the Guyana Fire Service, firefighters received a call at approximately 9:26 hrs and immediately responded with Water tenders #85, #105, Prison Bowser, Land Rover #7 and Hydraulic Platform #3, with crews from several fire stations.

The first responders arrived at the scene by 9:33 hrs, with firefighting efforts commencing a minute later. The initial assessment revealed one building fully engulfed in flames.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that there were no reports of casualties or injured persons, as prison officers were able to evacuate the building safely when the fire broke out.

Given the close proximity of the fire to several businesses and two schools, Westfield Prep and Chase Academy, precautionary evacuations were carried out, ensuring the safety of all children involved.

The affected living quarters, which housed at least 30 officers, was inaugurated in 2011 by the then Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee.

In light of the tragedy, Nicklon Elliot, the Director of Prisons, who was present at the scene, assured persons that temporary accommodations have been arranged for the displaced officers.

The Fire Chief noted the total destruction of the building and highlighted the irony of a fire prevention talk conducted by the Fire Service with the Prison Service just a day before the incident. Investigations to determine the cause of the fire are currently underway.