Guardsman employee dies weeks after garage explosion

A Guardsman Group employee who was critically injured in a massive fire at the company's garage compound in May has died while undergoing treatment at a specialised burn centre in the United States.

The deceased has been identified as 43-year-old Damion Walters, one of three people seriously injured in the May 27 blaze, which broke out while mechanical work was being carried out at the company's garage compound.

The fire spread rapidly, triggering an emergency response before it was eventually brought under control.

Walters was airlifted to the Burn Center in Augusta, Georgia, the day after the incident through a coordinated effort involving local and international partners. Despite receiving specialised treatment, he died on Monday.

In a statement, the Guardsman Group said Walters' passing has left family, friends and colleagues devastated.

Executive Chairman Kenneth Benjamin said the company had remained hopeful throughout Walters' treatment.

"This is a heartbreaking day for Damion's family and for all of us who knew him. From the moment the incident occurred, our focus was on giving him every possible chance of recovery. Today, our hearts are with his loved ones, and we pray they find strength and comfort in the days ahead," Benjamin said.

Deputy Executive Chairman Nicholas Benjamin also expressed condolences to Walters' family, saying the company was deeply saddened by the outcome after holding onto hope throughout his treatment.

He added that the two other injured workers are recovering well and are expected to return to Jamaica in the coming weeks.

The company also thanked emergency responders, the Burn Foundation of Jamaica, healthcare professionals, aviation partners and everyone who assisted with Walters' overseas medical transfer and treatment.

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