A devastating fire claimed the life of Kimberly Harrison, a five-year-old resident of Whitehall Avenue, on Wednesday afternoon, leaving the community in deep sorrow.
The blaze erupted around 2:53 PM in Kimberly’s three-bedroom home, where she was staying with her grandmother and other family members. Emergency services from Half-Way Tree responded swiftly to the alarm, battling the flames to rescue those trapped inside.
Despite the firefighters’ heroic efforts, Kimberly was found unresponsive in the bathroom due to severe smoke inhalation. Thankfully, her relatives escaped without physical injuries, though the emotional toll is profound.
Dr. Kasan Troupe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, expressed the ministry’s profound grief over the loss. “Kimberly was a vibrant child with a bright future ahead of her. Her untimely passing is a heartbreaking loss for her family and our community,” he stated.
In response to the tragedy, the ministry has mobilized its Guidance and Counselling Unit to offer trauma support to Kimberly’s family and other affected residents of Whitehall Avenue. This initiative underscores the ministry’s commitment to the safety and well-being of all children in the region.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the fire, aiming to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future. The community has rallied together, providing support and comfort to those mourning Kimberly’s loss during this incredibly difficult time.
