Parked cars blocking roads and empty hydrants hampered fire officers as they battled a blaze that destroyed four houses and damaged several others at Parris Gap, Westbury Road, St. Michael just after midday.

Acting Chief Fire Officer, Henderson Patrick, briefed Starcom Network News at the scene.

He spoke of the challenge posed by parked cars and waterless hydrants.

Acting Chief Fire Officer, Henderson Patrick.

Acting police public relations officer, Sargeant Liesel Gabrielle, later disclosed that as many as 23 people were affected.

Two of the fire victims spoke to our Shantelle Legall-Gibson at the scene.

Victims of the Westbury Road blaze.