Sections of Tacky High school destroyed by fire

A fire reportedly set by men who attempted to rob the Tacky High School in the eastern parish St. Mary gutted several sections of the institution early Monday.      

It’s reported that shortly after 1a.m., a group of  men held up the school's security guard and demanded that he open the vault in the bursar's office.

The guard told them he had no access, however, the men tried to break into the area where the vault is located. They then set fire to a section of  the school.

According to Principal, Errol Basco, the institution was extensively damaged. School records were also destroyed.

“The entire administrative block is damaged and that block would have held the staff room, the principal’s office, the bursar’s office, the secretary’s office, the records office, the book room, the canteen , the kitchen, the store room and the multipurpose hall.  I can’t see school in operation for right now,” the Principal said.

The police say they are waiting on the completion of cooling down operations to proceed with the investigation into the fire.

According to Deputy Superintendent of  the St. Mary Police, Gary Flash, it is unclear whether the vault was taken from the building.

“It is not sure if they gained entry or if anything was compromised in the principal’s or bursar’s office. Cooling down operations are going on and as soon as that is completed the police will go in and commence their investigations, ” he said.

Meanwhile, Education Minister, Ronald Thwaites will visit the school on Monday afternoon.

The Ministry will put alternative arrangements in place regarding operations at the school.    

A release said plans are being made for students scheduled to sit external exams at the Guys Hill High School.

This arrangement will remain for the duration of  the examination period.