The Guyanese community in the Virgin Islands (VI) has stepped up to host a vigil in honor of the 19 who perished in the Mahadia School Dormitory fire in Guyana. Photo: Internet Source

The event is being organized by Guyanese who live in the VI as the territory has a large diaspora of Guyanese. Photo: Team of Reporters

At the time of the fire there were reportedly 57 female students in the one-flat concrete building measuring about 100 feet by 40 feet, with several windows, all grilled, and with five doors. Photo: Loop News

Set for 6:00 PM at Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park (CBR TPP), persons are being encouraged to bring forms of light which could include a candle, cell phone or torchlight.

The event is being organised by Guyanese who live in the VI, as the territory has a large diaspora of Guyanese.

On May 22, 2023, the Guyana Government through its Department of Public Information announced that as a result of the fire at the dormitory at the Mahdia Secondary School, it resulted in a death toll of 19, including 18 girls and the young son of the caretaker. Several others received injuries.

Investigations so far have indicated that the fire was maliciously set by a student of the school.

Local media reported that the student was allegedly upset that her phone was taken away over objections by the school that she was engaging with an adult in matters dangerous to her well-being.

She had pledged to give “trouble” over the actions taken against her.

Following the tragedy, three days of national mourning were declared by President Mohamed Irfaan Ali.