Several families are without their homes today as a large fire gutted a large area of San Pedro Town last night, July 31, 2011. Town residents in the Airstrip Area were awakened about 1:30 a.m. to the calls and screams of neighbors as a fire started in the building known as Neri’s Tacos located next to Hakal Kiik and one street behind El Fogon Restaurant. Neri’s Tacos is a popular early morning eatery in San Pedro.
Firefighters experienced difficulties starting up the fire engine and residents struggled to put out the fire with a bucket brigade. The fire got out of control pretty quick and managed to engulf at least three homes in the block and completly destroy the property of at least 10 families who today remain homeless. Sources tell Ambergris Today that the fire started in the rear building of Neri’s Taco, presumably the kitchen. It is not know what was the cause of the fire, but the Fire Department is conducting an investigation into the matter.
Residents were clearly frustrated at the response of the San Pedro Fire Department as there was little residents could do to extinguish the fire that quickly got out of control and spread to neighboring buildings. No fatalites or injuries have been recorded up to now.
Children affected by the fire are between the ages of 5 to 10. Residents are already working on collecting clothes and basic necessities for the famiies affected. If you can help please pass by El Fogon Restaurant (today Sunday, July 31, 2011) to render your assistance. The familes affected need our help.
