By Admin. Updated 12:38 p.m., Friday, May 1, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
A small business owner in Diamond Estate has been left reeling after a devastating fire destroyed his retail shop in the early hours of Friday, May 1, 2026, wiping out years of investment and livelihood.
Duffall Adams, who has operated his business for nearly five years, said the fire broke out shortly after 2 a.m. in the three-storey building where his shop was located on the top floor.
Recounting the moments leading up to the blaze, Adams said he was alerted by unusual noises during the night. “After two this morning, I heard my dogs kicking up. I heard footsteps upstairs,” he explained. “I told my wife it sounded like someone had broken in.”
According to Adams, neighbours also reported hearing a disturbance moments before the fire ignited. “They said something was pelted, and about five minutes after, they started seeing a blaze,” he added.
When he rushed upstairs to investigate, Adams said the situation had already escalated beyond control. “I tried opening the door, but the fire was already too much. I also heard an explosion, which was likely from the gas bottles,” he said.
The blaze destroyed the contents of the shop, including more than EC$3,000 in cash, a recently restocked inventory, a 52-inch television, a stereo system used for karaoke, and an engine valued at over EC$8,000 that had only recently been purchased.
Visibly shaken, Adams said the emotional toll has been difficult to process. “I can’t even cry. I’m just keeping my faith because I have high blood pressure,” he shared.
He described himself as a peaceful member of the community, emphasising that he has no known conflicts. “I don’t get into anything with anyone, no confusion at all,” Adams said, noting his consistent efforts to give back, particularly during the Christmas season. “I take everything out my pocket, donations, helping children who can’t afford school.”
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, and investigations are expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In the meantime, Adams is left to confront the harsh reality of starting over, having lost nearly five years of hard work in a matter of hours.
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