Walker's Place of Safety fire heroes recommended for national awards

At least three persons who were instrumental in helping to save the lives of 34 wards of the state at the Walker's Place of Safety during a fire which razed the Lyndhurst Crescent property in January have been recommended by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information for national awards.

While expressing regret at the loss of two children during the blaze, State Minister for Youth Floyd Green said he was grateful that quick action on the part of one ward at the facility and two neighbours saved many others.

“I draw the attention of the House to young Selena Reid who was the first person to notice that there was a fire and who ran through the entire building to wake up her brothers and sisters so that they could exit the building. I want to also commend their chief caregiver Ms Grace Allen,” Green shared with his parliamentary colleagues as he made his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in Parliament on Tuesday.

Further, he recounted how a neighbour, Kimani Anderson exposed himself to grave danger by rescuing six girls from the raging fire at the home.

“As the fire raged and one of the passageways became blocked it trapped some of the girls in one of the rooms. Kimani risked his own life, entered the building, kicked off one of the doors and enabled six girls to come out of that room into safety.”

“We have recommended that Selena, Grace Allen, and Kimani Anderson all be given national honours for their bravery,” Green added.

In the January 16 tragedy, 12-year-old Anika McCrea and 16-year-old Annakay Moreland perished in the blaze which was caused by an electrical short circuit.

We want to hear from you! Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-449-0169, email us at editors@gleanerjm.com or onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com.