Over 20 Displaced After Massive Fire Along Spanish Town Bypass

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SPANISH TOWN, St Catherine

A late-night inferno ripped through a residential area along the Spanish Town Bypass at the Salt Pond Main Road intersection, displacing more than 20 residents, including seven children.

The blaze, which broke out just before midnight on Thursday, July 17, spread rapidly through the closely built structures — a mix of board and concrete homes with zinc roofing. Superintendent Dennis Lyon, the divisional commander for the Jamaica Fire Brigade’s St Catherine Division, confirmed that firefighters were alerted at 11:29 pm, and a unit was immediately dispatched.

Fast-Spreading Blaze Engulfs Tightly Packed Community

“En route to the fire, the Brigade observed massive smoke emitting into the atmosphere and an additional unit was requested,” said Superintendent Lyon.

Upon arrival, fire crews were met with multiple homes ablaze. Given the density of the neighborhood, the flames leapt from one structure to the next, prompting a swift call for reinforcements.

In total, three fire units and 17 firefighters worked throughout the night to bring the blaze under control and finally extinguish it.

14 Adults and 7 Children Left Homeless

Although no lives were lost and no injuries reported, 21 residents — 14 adults and 7 children — are now displaced and facing an uncertain future.

Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire. Lyon and his team returned to the scene Friday morning to begin a detailed assessment of the damage.

🔍 Our Opinion

The Spanish Town fire is yet another grim reminder of the vulnerability of densely populated communities, particularly where building materials and layout make fires difficult to contain. As investigations continue, urgent attention must be given to housing safety, emergency preparedness, and post-disaster support for the displaced families.

📌 Highlights:

  • Fire started around 11:29 pm on Thursday, July 17

  • 3 fire units, 17 firefighters responded

  • No fatalities or injuries reported

  • 21 individuals (including 7 children) displaced

  • Cause of fire still under investigation

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