President orders full-scale probe into deadly gas station explosion

President Dr Irfaan Ali has ordered a full-scale investigation into Sunday night’s explosion at the Mobil Gas Station at Regent and King Streets, Georgetown, which claimed the life of a six-year-old girl and left four others injured.

In a statement issued from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he is on official duty, President Ali said he had received detailed briefings late Sunday and early Monday on the circumstances surrounding the blast that killed Soraya Bourne and critically injured Rishad Lord and Seddia McClintoc. Jenica Hooper and Yvonne Jonas also suffered injuries in the incident.

“I have directed that a full-scale investigation be launched immediately and that every available resource and investigative tool be utilised to determine the precise cause and circumstances of this incident,” Ali said.

He confirmed that investigators have identified an individual of interest and instructed that images of the person be circulated widely to enlist public assistance in the ongoing probe.

Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond visited and conveyed condolences to Bourne’s mother on Sunday evening, while Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony continues to monitor the condition of the injured with medical teams at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Ali extended his sympathies to the victims’ families and said he had spoken directly with the doctors treating the injured, instructing that “every form of support and care be provided” to those receiving treatment.

Police said the explosion occurred at around 19:36 hrs on Sunday, causing extensive damage to the fuel station and nearby properties.