Regency Park Residents Pick Up Pieces After Wildfire

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GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – Traffic came to a standstill on West Sunrise Highway as residents of the Regency Park community attempted to reach their homes while flames raged through nearby bushes.

Thick, black smoke filled the sky, visible for miles, significantly reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions throughout Friday.

When we visited the community Monday morning, the lingering scent of smoke was still in the air.

We spoke with a resident who declined to appear on camera but described the terrifying ordeal from his view and said the community came together as one.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Philip Davis and other government officials visited Grand Bahama to assess the damage firsthand. During his visit, he met with residents and reassured them of the government’s support.

To aid in the firefighting efforts, 30 Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers were deployed from New Providence early Saturday morning.

Henry Pratt, recounting his experience, says he used his hose to protect his home.

As of Saturday, Assistant Commissioner of Police Advarado Dames, officer in charge of the Northern Division, confirmed that three areas remain under close monitoring.

The resident adds that he’s just grateful no one lost their lives.