Third Beryllium explosion survivor flown overseas for burn treatment

A third man injured in the explosion at the Guardsman Group of Companies’ Beryllium garage facility has been flown out of Jamaica for overseas medical treatment, where he is expected to receive specialist care for severe burns.

The man is one of three surviving victims who suffered third-degree burns in Wednesday’s incident. His spouse, who is expected to join him abroad, said he had been able to speak after the blast, which she took as an encouraging sign, but described his injuries as serious and painful.

She also praised the response from Guardsman and Beryllium, saying representatives were present while he was in hospital and helped to secure items he needed during the emergency.

The cause of the blast at the Beryllium garage facility remains under investigation. The company has said its immediate attention is on assisting the three injured workers, while also supporting relatives of Richard McGuire, the employee who died on Thursday morning.

A company representative said the period is understandably difficult for McGuire’s family, and that the organisation wants to ensure they receive the help they need in whatever form is required.

The two other burn victims have already started treatment in the United States. Stephen Joseph, co-founder of the Burn Foundation of Jamaica and Crisis Support Charity, commended the medical staff at Kingston Public Hospital for stabilising the injured men and getting them ready for overseas care.

Joseph urged continued prayers for the victims, noting that recovery from serious burns is difficult, while expressing hope for all three survivors.