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Usain Bolt Suffers Huge Losses as Fire Razes His Multi-Million Investment

Part of Usain Bolt's Tracks to Records restaurant was razed by fire in Montego Bay.
Jamaican sprinting legend Usain Bolt has seen one of his businesses destroyed by fire following a suspected power outage linked to Hurricane Melissa.
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A fire in the early hours of Saturday morning caused extensive damage to the upper floor of Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records restaurant on Jimmy Cliff Boulevard in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

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Fire officials are now investigating the cause of the blaze that ravaged the popular establishment.

The Jamaica Fire Brigade's lead investigator for St James, Acting Superintendent Oneil Kerr, reported that the alarm was raised at 1:48 a.m. Firefighters from the Montego Bay station arrived at the St. James Place location to find flames engulfing the roof of the two-story building.

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"Upon arrival, the team observed fire coming from the roof of Tracks and Records," Kerr stated as per the Jamaican Gleaner. "They immediately got into operation, and within a few minutes the situation was brought under control."

While the restaurant was closed to the public at the time of the incident, some staff members were present on the lower level. No injuries were reported. Investigators spent the morning examining the debris and interviewing employees who were on-site when the fire broke out.

Jamaican Authorities Open Probe

Kerr noted that initial assessments point to "significant" damage. "The fire was confined to the upper floors, which hold the dining area, bar, restrooms, and an office space," he explained. "A full evaluation by the property owners will determine the total cost, but based on observation, the extent appears to be significant."

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Although there were suggestions that the fire started after a power outage, Kerr emphasized that the investigation would be based on evidence, not speculation. "We listen to all of the arguments out there, but we base our hypothesis on empirical data," he said. "At this point, it is an active investigation, so we cannot speak to probable cause."

In light of the incident, which occurred as many Jamaicans were restoring power following Hurricane Melissa, Kerr issued a public safety warning. He advised homeowners and businesses to have their electrical systems inspected by a certified electrician before reconnecting to the grid.

"During the passage of Hurricane Melissa, our electrical systems would have been stressed," Kerr cautioned. "There could be moisture at connective points, loose connections, or challenges on service lines. It is important to protect your assets." He also recommended the use of surge protectors to safeguard appliances and prevent further property loss.

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