KINGSTON, Jamaica — More than 80 firefighters were deployed to contain the massive fire that destroyed the Hagley Park Road branch of Superior Parts Limited on Thursday.

The Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB), in a release on Saturday, said modern strategic and tactical fire-fighting approaches, as well as effective inter-agency co-operation, were critical factors in containing the blaze, which it described as one of the most intense infernos battled by the brigade in recent times.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

JFB Commissioner Stewart Beckford said the immediate priority was containing the blaze, which occurred in a densely populated area surrounded by commercial and residential buildings.

He explained that the fire was intensified by the presence of large quantities of lubricants, vehicle parts and other accessories, many of which were stored in pressurised spray cans and containers.

“Quite apart from the thick, blinding pillars of black smoke, there was a series of explosions caused by these pressurised containers in the building, and that had to be urgently addressed,” Beckford said.

The Half-Way-Tree Fire Station was the first unit to respond, before being supported by firefighters from the York Park, Port Royal, Spanish Town, Portmore, Trench Town, Stony Hill and Rollington Town stations. Civilian staff also provided logistical support during the operation.

Beckford said an Incident Command System was established at the scene to improve coordination, communication and management of the emergency.

“We had personnel operating at each side of the fire zone, to ensure the best response to the situation as it unfolded,” he said.

The commissioner acknowledged challenges with accessing high-pressure water from nearby hydrants but praised the support provided by the National Water Commission (NWC), which redirected water supplies to the area and provided three water trucks.

He also commended the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) for assisting with crowd control and clearing sections of Hagley Park Road to allow emergency vehicles easier access.

Beckford further addressed public criticism and commentary on social media regarding the handling of the fire and the resources used.

“Firefighting is a highly specialised calling. Our assessments and responses to fires are not based on presumption, but on the evidence at the scene, our years of training, as well as the technologies that we have at our disposal,” he said.

Beckford explained that factors such as building design, airflow, the movement of gases and the materials involved are critical in determining firefighting strategies aimed at limiting damage and protecting lives.

He noted that while the blaze was contained, three firefighters were injured during the operation. Their injuries, however, were not life-threatening, with two of the firefighters already discharged from medical care and the third continuing to receive treatment.

The commissioner defended the preparedness and capabilities of the JFB, stating that the organisation continues to improve its training, equipment and operational systems with support from the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development.

“Firefighting is an inherently dangerous and highly skilled job, and we ensure that our firefighters are not only equipped with modern training, but also with personal protective and breathing equipment,” he said.

Beckford assured members of the public that the JFB remains committed to protecting lives and property while continuing to strengthen its firefighting capabilities.