BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE fire that destroyed the two-story building and scorched another house in West Bourne Ghaut yesterday afternoon (May 4) was said to have started by two five-year old boys.
Information received from a source within the Basseterre Division of the St. Kitts-Nevis Fire and Rescue Services stated that the two boys were cooking on a stove in the lower flat of the building, which has been unoccupied for over a year.
The source told SKNVibes that the two lads confessed to setting the fire.
According to eyewitnesses, the two youngsters were seen running from the building shortly before fire engulfed the entire structure.
Although the building is said to be abandoned, a number of individuals are usually seen there on a regular basis.
SKNVibes understand that the fire started shortly after 2:30 p.m. and it quickly engulfed the entire structure and scorched a neighbouring house.
Firefighters were prompt in their response and quickly had the blaze under control as crew members from the St. Kitts Electricity Company were on hand to disconnect wires from the building.
Although members of the Fire and Rescue Services were highly praised for their efforts in preventing what could have been a disaster to residents within that area, some onlookers were not in agreement with them allowing non-members of the firefighting team access to the area whilst they were extinguishing the fire.