For the second time in two weeks, the Old Shoe Market in Montego Bay, St James, has been struck by a devastating fire. Early Saturday morning, a blaze erupted, destroying another shop and compounding the losses for local business owners who have already faced significant setbacks.
Swift Response from Firefighters
Firefighters from the nearby Barnett Street fire station swiftly responded to the scene with two fire units, effectively preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent shops. Their prompt action was crucial in limiting the extent of the damage, but despite their efforts, a variety of merchandise, including men’s and women’s clothing and various accessories, were lost to the flames.
Second Incident in Ten Days
This incident comes just ten days after another fire in the Old Shoe Market Arcade destroyed three shops. On that occasion, the fire reduced similar establishments to ashes, highlighting a disturbing trend of recurrent fires in this bustling commercial area.
Ongoing Investigations
The frequent blazes have left shop owners on edge and questioning the safety measures in place within the market. The fire brigade has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of this latest fire and to assess whether there are underlying issues contributing to the repeated outbreaks.
Impact on the Community
The Old Shoe Market is a vital hub for local commerce, and these fires represent not just a loss of property but also a threat to the livelihoods of numerous small business owners. The repeated incidents have raised concerns about fire safety and the potential need for improved preventive measures in the market area.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for answers and more robust safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Jamaica News Daily.
This article highlights the ongoing issues faced by the Old Shoe Market and the impact on the local community, while emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and improved safety measures to prevent future fires.
