Story/Photos By Mike Santilli
The Straw Market in downtown Nassau caught fire on Tuesday, September 4, 2001.
The Straw Market is a well know tourist attraction where
approximately 582 people sell their wares.
The fire quickly spread and
consumed three city blocks.
Civilians, police, the Defense Force (local
military), the Bahamian Electric Company, and the Civil Aviation Authority, responding with a Crash/Fire Rescue Unit, were all involved in the
firefighting efforts.
The fire was contained about 7 hours later, but hot spots were monitored for another 24 hours.
Although a great deal of damage was sustained, the majority of downtown
businesses were unaffected.
Cleanup efforts were under way within 48 hours.
Only minor injuries were reported.
One suspect was arrested and charged with arson.
