Bodybuilder’s residence, guest house hit by early morning blaze

A major fire early this morning on Cummings Street, Georgetown, caused significant damage to two properties, including a house owned by bodybuilder Hugh Ross and a guest house owned by businessman Julian McEwan.

Ignite News visited the scene and observed extensive fire damage, particularly to the upper flat of McEwan’s guest house, where one room was completely gutted. Parts of the structure were also left heavily charred, with smoke and water damage visible throughout the building.

Speaking with Ignite News, McEwan said he was contacted around 6:30 a.m. and informed of the blaze. He praised the swift response of the Guyana Fire Service, describing their arrival time as “fantastic,” and credited firefighters for preventing further destruction to the building and neighbouring properties.

He also expressed relief that no one was injured during the incident, noting that the outcome could have been far worse given the intensity of the fire and the building’s layout.

Despite the setback, McEwan said his focus is now on rebuilding and reopening his business, which has been in operation since 2004. He added that the guest house and restaurant bar remains a popular budget accommodation for foreign visitors staying in the Georgetown area, particularly in the Church Street vicinity.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.