HGP Nightly News – A section of the three-storey Regent Household Electronics building on Regent Street, Georgetown, collapsed on Wednesday as firefighters battled a major blaze.
The fire broke out shortly after 1:03 p.m., sending thick smoke across parts of central Georgetown.
Deputy Fire Chief Wayne Scotland confirmed that the western side of the building gave way under the intensity of the fire. Firefighters worked for hours from multiple positions to bring the blaze under control and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring buildings.
Despite the intensity of the fire, Scotland said the flames remained contained to the affected building.
The business owner, Shaheed Hamid, confirmed that all staff members were accounted for and safe. The fire also forced nearby businesses and occupants to evacuate as smoke engulfed the area.
Regent Street was temporarily closed between Light and Albert streets as emergency crews remained on the scene. Eastbound traffic was diverted south onto Light Street, while westbound motorists were directed onto Albert Street.
Traffic ranks were deployed to manage the diversions and ease congestion in surrounding areas. The cause of the fire remains unknown. The extent of the damage is also still being assessed.
Hamid said Wednesday’s blaze was the second major fire at the property. In 2009, the Grand Coastal Guest House, which previously operated at the location, was destroyed by fire.
