Owner of the El Pecos Restaurant at Royal Palm Plaza in Maraval, Richard Camacho, says while he has an idea what may have caused an explosion at his business place on Thursday, he prefers not to divulge any information as investigations are continuing. Camacho said the business, which occupied one of the spots on the ground floor, was totally destroyed.
He returned to the scene yesterday but said he was unable to go “deep within” the restaurant as he was still awaiting clearance from the Fire Service. Camacho said he had several meetings immediately after the incident. “At this present time they have some ideas as to what is going on but they are still assessing the situation. I am really not at liberty to say anything at this point because I don’t want conflicting reports to get out there.”
On whether he could give an estimate of the cost of the damage, Camacho said insurance adjusters would be looking after that matter as his first priority was to ensure the well-being of his workers. “I am not thinking about that right now. I have to focus on my employees and making sure they get the help they need. “But the entire place was totally destroyed...from all the twisted iron I saw there was really nothing left. Burger King and myself got hit the hardest,” Camacho added.
He said some of his injured employees were treated and discharged but one was warded at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “My family and I will continue to pray for all the well-being of my employees... even those who are discharged we will ensure they are all right,” Camacho said. He said some 16 people were injured, some of whom suffered minor injuries. Preliminary reports from fire officers suggest that the explosion was triggered when a gas hose received a puncture.
It is also believed a metal part of the hose which was being dragged caused the spark. The North Plant LPG Inc was delivering fuel at the time of Thursday’s explosion. The company is located at Gaston Street, Chaguanas. Contacted on Thursday and also several times yesterday, a spokesman at the gas company said no one was available for comment as all managers were locked in a meeting. Messages left were also not returned.