A family of seven were left homeless after their uninsured timber and wall house at Indian Ground, St Peter, was gutted by fire yesterday evening.
Troy Gill, his wife Rosita and their five children, ranging in age from 16 to six, lost all of their possessions in the blaze, which caused minor damage to the adjacent house.
The Gills’ 11-year-old son Tyrell recalled that he was in the backyard hanging out clothes when he heard a loud explosion. He said he used a hose to try to put out the fire, but had to give up because the smoke was burning his eyes.
Troy Gill, who had occupied the house for the past 16 years, said he was at work when he received the call that his home was on fire. An emotional Gill lamented the destruction of his furniture repair shop, along with several items of furniture and materials which were to be used to complete work for several individuals. Â
Antonia Walcott, best friend of Rosita, offered her home to the family for as long as necessary.
Officials from the Welfare Department visited the scene and spoke to the Gills to make arrangements to secure temporary housing for the family.
Two fire tenders from the St James and Arch Hall stations, and five officers under the command of Station Officer Henderson Maynard responded.
