ST. THOMAS — Virgin Islands Fire Service personnel here successfully contained and extinguished a fire that had “fully engulfed” a home near Catherineberg, the mansion owned by the West Indian Company that has housed many governors.
According to a press release Government House issued on Thursday, at about 1:24 p.m. both units from Hotel Company responded to a possible structural fire at #2809 Cecilia Gade. Upon arrival, firefighters came upon a two-story residential dwelling fully engulfed in flames.
The decision was made to call in two additional fire units to the scene — Bordeaux and Dorethea stations — as they battled the blaze for approximately 45 minutes until it was fully extinguished, according to the release. Fire personnel also conducted “salvage and overhaul” operations of the property.
Occupants of the affected home refused medical attention from EMS personnel who were on the scene, the release further stated. However, Fire Service personnel were able to make contact with the American Red Cross to assist the displaced residents.
All units were ordered to return to their duty stations at 2:55 p.m. The cause of the fire was unknown as of press time on Thursday. However, an investigation is underway by the VIFS’ Arson Unit.
Tags: Cecilia Gade fire, fire in st. thomas, near catherinberg