On Monday night, a sky lantern that floated into a tree on Warren Munroe Road in Cunupia is suspected of igniting a blaze that engulfed two wooden homes and a nearby livestock‑rearing shed before 10:49 p.m. The fire left seven residents, including three children, homeless and destroyed a small business that relied on poultry and livestock.
Police reports say the flames erupted behind the first house, spreading quickly to the back wall and into the bedroom. The blaze also consumed an estimated 600 roosters, six sheep and several goats, and damaged household appliances, gardening equipment and furnishings. One man was burned while trying to douse the fire, and his son sustained superficial burns before being taken to Chaguanas Health Facility.
Firefighters from the Chaguanas and Couva stations arrived within minutes, assisted by the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission and a Crime Scene Investigation unit. The incident prompted a review of the cause, though authorities have yet to issue an official statement.
Azide Ali, whose wife was awakened by the smoke, said he could not confirm the lanterns caused the fire and urged caution over the practice. He appealed for public aid through the Warrenville Masjid and Learning Centre, while the local council offered support. His wife, Nadara Mohammed, lost a recently renovated home and is unsure how to rebuild.
Ali called for a ban on floating lanterns, noting the $20 item sparked a disaster that cost two houses and a livelihood. “Of a $20 lantern, we had two houses burned down,” he said, highlighting the danger of celebratory releases.