Fire destroys Kwakwani Secondary School

A massive early-morning fire completely destroyed the Kwakwani Secondary School in Pathville, Upper Berbice River. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

The fire started at approximately 03:40hrs and gutted the entire one-storey concrete building.

Police Headquarters in a statement said an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the blaze.

According to a Police report, a Corporal stationed at Mackenzie Police Station was attending the annual Kwakwani Village Fair at the nearby ballfield when he noticed flames coming from the Pathville area. He promptly alerted the Kwakwani Police Station.

A Police Sergeant and two other ranks responded to the report and arrived to find the school engulfed in flames, Police Headquarters said.

Efforts to contain the fire were led by local auxiliary staff, including driver Julian Martin and assistant Jishan Martin, using a fire pick-up vehicle.

Despite their efforts, Police said the structure was already beyond saving.

The school, which was powered by electricity from Kwakwani Utility Inc., had reportedly experienced power outages throughout the night. The ongoing investigation will determine whether this played a role in the fire.

According to the Police, a security guard from Homesafe Security Service, who was on duty when the fire broke out stated he discovered smoke coming from the Headmistress’s office, located on the southwestern side of the building, during routine checks.

He immediately contacted his supervisor, Elizabeth Samuels.

No injuries have been reported.