Mark Titus, Freelance Writer

The burnt-out house in Kilmarnock, St. Elizabeth, where three members of a family perished early yesterday. - photo by Mark Titus

WESTERN BUREAU:

When Verona Johnson arrived at the Sangster International Airport from The Cayman Islands on Monday night, there was no way she could know that her death was near.

In fact, five hours later, her charred remains were found inside her burnt-out family home in Kilmarnock, St. Elizabeth.

Verona, reportedly, perished in her efforts to save her 76-year-old mother, Francella Johnson, and her niece, Britannia Robinson, 10, from the flames that engulfed their five-bedroom dwelling.

Verona, a 31-year-old domestic helper, had been working in The Cayman Islands for the past 10 years.

Sister in shock

"I really cannot believe that this has happened," said her sister, Lerline Johnson, who sat staring down the road, as if she expected to see her loved ones walking up to her.

"I never believe that these things could happen to Mama in her old age. She is a God-fearing woman, and all Verona care about is the family; she was the backbone."

According to Detective Corporal N.C. Ball of the Newmarket Police Station, fire was reportedly seen coming from a section of the house about 4:45 a.m. It has been reported that Verona assisted her eight-year-old son, Daniel Stone, and her 27-year-old sister, Angella Johnson - who is said to be mentally challenged - outside.

Verona then returned inside the house, to help her other two relatives, when she perished with them in the flames.

Up to last night, there was no information as to the cause of the fire, but personnel from the government forensic laboratory will be retrieving specimens from the scene of the fire for analysis.

"I share the grief with the family. This is really a blanket moment for us here in Kilmarnock, and everyone is wondering what could have caused this disaster," commented Ernest Hendricks, councillor for the Newmarket division.

"This is something that will live with us for a very long time."

He pledged to offer any support he could to the bereaved family. Ms. Johnson is asking the public to assist her in burying her loved ones.