In a devastating incident this morning, the living quarters of the Guyana Prison Service, located along Parade Street in Kingston, Georgetown, was entirely consumed by fire.
The cause of the fire, which started around 9:32 AM, is yet to be determined.
Hemchandra Persaud, Divisional Fire Officer, reported that the fire response involved three fire appliances, including a hydraulic platform.
Due to the proximity of nearby schools, including Chase Academy and West Field Prep School, children were evacuated safely.
The thick smoke prompted the evacuation of these schools, with students relocated to the Police Sports Club Ground at Eve Leary.
Natalie Adams, a nursery school teacher, shared that upon noticing the smoke, teachers quickly evacuated the children through a side gate, ensuring the safety of all students.
The fire, believed to have originated in one of the 20 rooms on the premises, led to the complete destruction of the living accommodation.
Despite valiant efforts by the Guyana Fire Service, the building commissioned in 2011 at a cost of $24.8 million was lost to the flames.
An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the fire.
NCN News will continue to provide updates on this tragic incident.