An Orange Walk fire destroyed the upper flat of a downtown building on Saturday morning, displacing a family of three. The blaze erupted around 9:30 a.m. at the corner of Santa Ana and Aurora Streets. The red and white building sits directly across from the Shell One Stop gas station and features a wooden second floor above a commercial space.
While the first floor remains intact, the entire upper flat sustained severe damage. The building houses Naybaz Store on the ground level, but older residents remember it as the former site of Juanita’s Restaurant. Thankfully, firefighters responded quickly and managed to stop the flames from spreading further. Still, the upstairs residence was completely gutted by the fire.
Two teenage sisters, ages 14 and 11, were home alone at the time. Reports say the younger girl had just stepped out of her bedroom to begin laundry when she noticed smoke. Flames had already started spreading near a fan and some clothing. Despite both girls trying to put it out, the fire escalated quickly. The sisters then escaped unharmed and called their mother, who was at work.
No injuries were reported, but the loss is devastating. The Orange Walk fire left the family without belongings. Officials say the building was not insured, and the value of damages remains unknown. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Meanwhile, concerned neighbors have launched a donation drive. They are collecting clothing, groceries, school supplies, and essential household items for the affected family. Community members are encouraged to contribute and support those in need.
This Orange Walk fire highlights how quickly disaster can strike and how vital community response becomes in the aftermath.
