Crooked Tree Police Station burned to the ground

In northern Belize, the Crooked Tree Police Station had not in use for about five years because the building was unfit. And after a blaze last night, the station was reduced from a dilapidated structure to mere rubble. Corporal Donald Gillett, who is in charge of the area, says the building and contents were completely gutted in a matter of thirty to forty-five minutes. Since the building has been out of commission for a while, the fire is looking a lot like arson. But according to Gillett, the police will not speculate until the investigations are complete.

Cpl. Donald Gillett, O.C., Crooked Tree Police

“Approximately around ten-thirty p.m. of yesterday’s date, I received a phone call stating that the police station is on fire. As a result I headed for the location and upon reaching approximately twenty-five, thirty yards, I observed that the two storey wooden structure was engulfed in large flames of fire.”

Delahnie Bain

“Do you have any idea what was the value of the structure?”

Cpl. Donald Gillett

“No, I am not in the position to determine what was the estimated value of the structure.”

Delahnie Bain

“Are you the only officer stationed here?”

Cpl. Donald Gillett

Cpl. Donald Gillett

“Yes, I am the only police stationed here.”

Delahnie Bain

“And you mentioned that you were not operating from this building.”

Cpl. Donald Gillett

“No, the building was not operational for the past five years.”

Delahnie Bain

“Do you have any idea what the cause of the fire was?”

Cpl. Donald Gillett

“As I mentioned, it is an early stage and we will not be speculating at this time.”

Delahnie Bain

“But there have been rumors that it might have been an arson, do you have any idea why anyone would burn down the police station?”

Cpl. Donald Gillett

“I do not have any such reason and like I mentioned, no speculation. It is an early stage and the police will take up their role and responsibility to investigate the matter to the fullest. Fire personnel from Orange Walk responded last night and as we speak, I am yet awaiting for personnel from Belize City to arrive.”

Gillett has been performing his duties from his home while the station not in use.