‘Dear of a Fireman’ – Vashan Manbodh dies from spinal cord injury sustained in Mae’s blaze

Fireman Vashan Manbodh, 27, has passed away following spine injuries sustained while battling the devastating fire that destroyed the Mae’s Schools at Subryanville, Georgetown, on Wednesday.

Despite the best efforts of medical professionals at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the young firefighter succumbed to his injuries late on Saturday night.

Manbodh, along with fellow firefighter Morrison, was critically injured when part of the school building collapsed during the intense blaze. Both men were rushed to the hospital, but it was Manbodh’s injuries, which affected his spine and shoulders, that proved fatal.

Fire Chief Gregory Wickham expressed his deep sorrow on Sunday morning, confirming the loss of a “dear” member of the fire service family. Speaking to the News Room, he described Manbodh as a dedicated and valued firefighter whose tragic death has left a profound impact on his colleagues and the community.

“Yes, one of them passed last night,” Fire Chief Wickham confirmed. “Fireman Manbodh was injured during the fire, not the blaze itself, but during a building collapse. He was taken to the hospital immediately and was being treated by specialists. Unfortunately, he passed despite all efforts made to save him.”

Wickham reflected on the personal toll the loss has taken on the fire service family. “We’ve lost a dear of a firefighter. He was a true hero who gave his all. This is a very hard time for us,” he said.

Regarding his colleague, Fireman Morrison, Wickham reported that while he also sustained injuries, he is expected to recover. “Morrison… has been discharged from critical care and is recovering. We continue to offer our support to him and his family during this time.”

The fire service has been in constant contact with Manbodh’s family, offering condolences and support. Wickham shared that he had personally reached out to Manbodh’s mother after receiving the devastating news. “We are all deeply saddened by this loss,” he added. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. He was a brave and dedicated firefighter, and he will be missed.”