GFS probes cause of fire near Stabroek Market

– KFC, Pizza Hut operations temporarily closed

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is investigating the cause of Saturday night’s blaze that destroyed a building on the corners of Croal and Cornhill Streets in the vicinity of the Stabroek Market in Georgetown. “Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin and cause of the fire,” the GFS said in an update on Sunday.

The blaze started sometime around 20:25h on Saturday and prompted an extensive firefighting operation. The now destroyed building had housed a  clothing and cosmetic store operated by Chinese nationals. It was sandwiched between two other buildings, which housed KFC and Pizza Hut outlets on each side.

No injuries were recorded during the massive blaze that lasted for several hours on Saturday night. Initially, the Fire Service responded with three fire appliances. Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters observed the building fully engulfed in flames and immediately commenced firefighting operations to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring properties.

However, as the operation intensified, three additional fire appliances were deployed to reinforce the firefighting efforts, bringing the total number of responding appliances to six. Nevertheless, the GFS said through the swift intervention, coordinated response, and determined efforts of the firefighters, the blaze was successfully brought under control and confined to the building of origin, preventing further destruction to surrounding structures. According to Sunday’s update, the fire has since been completely extinguished.

The GFS has also commended the responding firefighters for their professionalism, dedication, and effective coordination in containing the blaze and averting a potentially more devastating incident in the densely populated commercial area.

Additionally, special appreciation was extended to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Banks DIH for their assistance.

Meanwhile, Beharry Restaurant Holdings Inc., which operates the KFC and Pizza Hut franchise in Guyana, has announced that the two branches will be temporarily closed to assess damages caused by the fire.

“KFC will remain temporarily closed as further assessments are conducted to determine the necessary restoration work. The reopening date will be communicated once confirmed,” the company said in notice to customers on Sunday.

Beharry Restaurant also extended gratitude to the GFS for their swift response and efforts in containing the fire. The company said too that it is relieved to confirm that no injuries were reported. “We apologise for any inconvenience and thank our valued customers for their patience, understanding and continued support,” the company added about its temporary closure.