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Fire at Guyana School Dormitory Kills 19, Suspected Arson by Upset Student

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Salman Akhtar
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Arson by upset student kills 19 in Guyana school dormitory fire

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Image Credit: The Washington Post

Suspected Arson Motivated by Mobile Phone Confiscation and Disciplined Relationship

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Investigators in Guyana have determined that a fire that claimed the lives of 19 individuals, mostly girls, in a school dormitory was intentionally started by a student. The suspect, who was upset over the confiscation of her mobile phone, had also faced disciplinary action for engaging in a relationship with an older man, according to National Security Adviser Gerald Gouveia.

Tragic Circumstances and Rescue Efforts

The fire broke out in the locked dormitory, which was meant to prevent the girls from leaving at night. The blaze rapidly spread through the wooden, concrete, and iron-grilled building. Firefighters managed to rescue some trapped individuals by creating openings in the walls. Unfortunately, many victims, including Indigenous girls aged 12 to 18 from remote villages, were unable to escape the flames.

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Efforts to Support the Affected and Seek Justice

The girl responsible for starting the fire, believed to be around 14 years old, suffered burns and is currently receiving medical treatment. Following her release from the hospital, she will be held in juvenile detention until she reaches adulthood. Officials have expressed sympathy for the students and families affected by the tragedy, stating that the government will provide necessary support.

International Support and Ongoing Investigation

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Guyana's government has accepted offers of assistance from the United States, including forensic and other expert teams, to aid in the investigation. Additionally, DNA identification specialists will be dispatched to help identify the remains of the deceased. Leaders from around the world have reached out to President Irfaan Ali, offering their support during this difficult time.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Fire officials have highlighted the need for improved communication to emergency services, as a quicker response could have potentially saved more lives. The recent incident surpasses the previous deadliest fire in the country, which occurred in 2016 at the main Georgetown prison and claimed the lives of 17 inmates.

This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need for vigilance in preventing such incidents. The investigation will continue to uncover further details surrounding the fire and seek justice for those affected.

FireDisaster TragicEvent GuyanaFire SchoolTragedy GuyanaInvestigation
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