By Nakasia Logan
February 12, 2025
A 91-year-old man, Herbert Gaskin, is now homeless after a devastating fire consumed his wooden house in Durban Street, Werk-En-Rust earlier this morning.
The fire broke out shortly after 9 a.m., and by the time emergency responders arrived, it had already spread rapidly, reducing the structure to rubble.
Gaskin was rushed to the hospital by Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) after suffering from smoke inhalation.
Two elderly women at the scene were also attended to by EMTs but did not require further medical attention.
The blaze also caused damage to nearby properties.
The back section of a nearby building was scorched, and another building sustained minor damages.
Fortunately, no further injuries were reported.
Firefighters were praised for their efforts in containing the fire to just Gaskin’s home despite the close proximity of other structures.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with crime scene investigators present at the scene.
Emergency personnel continue to assess the situation, and efforts are underway to assist those affected by the fire.