The Tribune

By SANCHESKA BROWN

Tribune Staff Reporter

sbrown@tribunemedia.net

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of an adult male body burnt beyond recognition early yesterday morning.

Fire Chief Walter Evans told The Tribune that the body was discovered in the doorway of an apartment complex that had been destroyed by a fire.

“We received information around 1am that a building was on fire through Warren Street off Farrington Road. When firefighters arrived at the scene, they met a building opposite Living Waters Church engulfed in flames,” he said.

“The building was a triplex apartment complex and the unit in the rear, an efficiency, was on fire. Officers met heavy flames coming from the back of the building and as they prepared to enter the building to extinguish the flames, they discovered the lifeless remains of an adult male lying on his back, halfway in, halfway out the door.

“We think he most likely died while trying to escape. The firefighters were successful in preventing the fire from spreading to the other units. However, there was minor smoke and water damage. Those residents have had to relocate. Emergency Medical Services pronounced the man dead at the scene. He is believed to be in his late 40s, early 50s.”

Supt Evans said there were security bars through the apartment which prevented the man from being able to escape. He is urging members of the public to at least have one window in their home that can be used as an escape route during an emergency.

“With the security bar installations we are asking persons to ensure that in areas where persons sleep at least one window has a provision that can be used for a fire escape. In the event of an emergency persons should be able to evacuate through that window. If there is a bar on every window there is no way to escape.”

Supt Evans said police are not sure of the cause of the fire, but investigations continue.