Abandoned building in New Amsterdam destroyed by fire, arson suspected 

A fire suspected to be an act of arson destroyed a two-story abandoned wooden house at Pilot Street and Strand, New Amsterdam, Region Six, on Friday.

The blaze also partially damaged a neighbouring building.

Just a day before, the New Amsterdam Town Council posted a warning about the building’s unfitness for habitation.

In an interview with reporters, Divisional Fire Officer, Clive McDonald stated that firefighters responded swiftly, arriving at about 04:50 hrs to find the structure fully engulfed in flames. Their prompt action helped contain the fire and prevent more extensive damage to nearby properties.

McDonald confirmed the fire was deemed malicious since there was no electricity or occupants in the building.

“There is no electricity in the building—it’s unoccupied—so there is no natural source that could have caused the fire. Based on the scene analysis and the dynamics of the fire, we have deemed it malicious,” McDonald revealed

He said the case has been handed over to Police for further investigations.

Additionally, McDonald addressed communication issues, noting that the division’s main phone line is inactive, but they are working to restore it. The public can reach the New Amsterdam Fire Station at 333-2261 for emergencies.