An ominous fire, with flames and billowing black smoke, accompanied by periodic explosions, temporarily blocked out the sun and caused traffic jams in The Quarter area, down in The Valley, and other central parts of Anguilla, on Wednesday, July 26.
The fire, of unknown origin, in a neighbourhood area, occurred at the lunch hour and continued for several hours, attracting large numbers of people.
The conflagration was basically confined to a collection of tyres, old vehicles, and other equipment on the grounds of the residence of Mr. Carl Ruan, where he engaged in mechanical and other technical work. There were no reports of injuries. The effects to immediate housing downwind were said to have mainly included smoke damage. There was also some damage to some overhead electricity cables.
Several fire-fighting trucks from the Anguilla Fire and Rescue Service as well as water trucks from private companies sped to and from the area as the Fire Officers and private citizens laboured to bring the situation under control. It was a most fearsome-looking scene, but thankfully it eventually ended without much mishap.
As a result of the engagement of the majority of fire-fighting equipment and Fire Officers from the Fire and Rescue Service, the Clayton Lloyd International Airport was temporarily downgraded to a special category 3, thus allowing only small aircraft to use the airdrome.
The fire incident is being investigated by the Royal Anguilla Police Force.
Mr. Carl Ruan and other members of his family have expressed sincere gratitude to all concerned who so ably and willingly offered their assistance at a very difficult time.
