Two vehicles, a four-apartment building and a business were destroyed by fire following an arson attack in Laventille yesterday. Twelve people, including four children — aged two, nine, 10 and 11 — are now homeless.
Fire officials and investigating police said the fire started when the two vehicles — a Tiida and a Kia — were firebombed. The blaze then spread to the building, completely destroying it. The building, which is located at Picketville No 2, Laventille, also housed a tailor shop. Fire officials estimated the total damage at $1.3 million.
Speaking to the T&T Guardian, one of the victims, who wished not to be identified, said at about 2.45 am she was preparing meals for her children for school when she heard a loud explosion.She said when she looked outside she saw the vehicles on fire and a white car allegedly speeding away from the scene.
She added she was scared for her life as she was a victim of several threats prior to the incident. She added that she believed the incident stemmed from an arrest made on Tuesday in connection with the threats.
Investigations are continuing.