According to investigations, about 6:40 p.m. on 19.05.2020 the Union Island Fire Station was alerted about an explosion at Freddy’s Gas Station located at Clifton, Union Island. The gas station was reportedly engulfed in flames which rapidly spread to a number of nearby buildings which caused the St. Vincent Electricity Company Limited (Vinlec) to cut power to the area. In a coordinated effort the fire was brought under control by personnel from the Fire Department at approximately 11pm but it remained visible up to 4 a.m. on 20.05.2020. As of 6 a.m. on 20.05.2020 firefighters were still on the scene addressing heavy steam coming from the foundation/ground of the buildings and surrounding areas within the vicinity of the explosion.
Three (3) persons reportedly sustained injuries from the incident and were subsequently rushed to mainland, St. Vincent, to seek medical attention at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard Service (SVGCG). Lindini Neverson, l2 years old Student of Union Island sustained second degree burns about his body; Freddy North, 72 years old the owner of Freddy’s Gas Station sustained first degree burns about his body; and Shaniqua “Azaria” Alexander, 17 years old Student of Union Island sustained both second and third degree burns about her body.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
An update on the health of the injured persons and an assessment and range of the damage caused by the fire has not yet been ascertained and will be published in a subsequent press release.
