Pensioner, Daughter Perishes in WBD Fire
December 13, 2024 – A tragic fire of unknown origin claimed the lives of a 75-year-old pensioner, Felis Smith, and her 44-year-old daughter, Ventina Smith, early this morning at Plantation #2 West Minister, West Bank Demerara.
Information from the Police suggests that the blaze, which erupted around 5:00 a.m., completely destroyed the one-storey wooden home located at Lot 3834. The structure, measuring approximately 25 by 15 feet, contained two bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen.
According to 21-year-old Chandine Sookraj, a resident of the home, she lived there with her mother Felis, her sister Ventina, her brother Vidnauth Sookraj, 34, and her four-year-old daughter, Veleta Sookraj.
Chandine explained that Felis, who was bedridden, and Ventina occupied the northeastern bedroom, while Vidnauth usually slept in the living room. Chandine shared the first bedroom with her daughter.
The family retired to bed around 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, with everything in order. However, around 5:00 a.m., Chandine was awakened by intense heat emanating from the northeastern bedroom. Upon checking, she discovered the room engulfed in flames.
Chandine quickly grabbed her daughter and escaped through the southern main door before alerting neighbors. The neighbors contacted the fire service for assistance.
The La Grange Fire Service and Eccles Fire Service, led by Leading Fireman Cameron, responded promptly. Despite their efforts, the home was entirely consumed by the flames.
When the fire was extinguished, police and fire service ranks discovered two bodies, believed to be Felis Smith and Ventina Smith, burned beyond recognition in the northeastern corner of the house. The remains were photographed and transported to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where a doctor officially pronounced them dead.
The bodies have been taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Home, pending post-mortem examinations. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, which remains unknown at this time.
This devastating incident has left the community in mourning as neighbors and officials express their condolences to the bereaved family
