UPDATE: Death toll now 19, many more injured following Mahdia dorm fire

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect new information from the authorities. We originally reported 20 people had died.

See the full statement from DPI below:

It is with great sadness that we bring to you a heart-wrenching update on the fire at the dormitory at the  Mahdia Secondary School.  We have lost many beautiful souls in that fire. The death toll currently stands at 19, while several others received injuries.

Five planes have already taken off to  Mahdia to support the regional health officials with additional medical supplies and medivacs. At this moment, seven children are prepared to be medivac to Georgetown.

The Prime Minister is leading a team of cabinet and other officials to Madhia whilst Minister Benn is already on the ground. The president and other officials are supporting efforts at Ogle to receive the critical patients and coordinate an emergency plan of action. A full-scale medical emergency action plan has been launched. We ask that our prayers continue to be with these children, their families, and their communities.