Panton Lane house fire act of arson - Police

About 8:00 pm two board dwellings were burnt to the ground leaving five adult males homeless at this moment.

The ages of the men are between 22 and 50, Old Harbour has been informed.

VIDEO: Fire destroys houses at Panton Lane

Detectives say they have strong leads based on information gathered so far, DSP Mark Harris told Old Harbour News this morning.

According to DSP Harris, who is the commander in charge for the police sub-division of Old Harbour, the attack was executed by two men.

“So it is now a criminal matter being investigated by the police,” he stated. “And I can tell you that persons will be arrested and charged.”

However, their identities cannot be disclosed at this time as the investigation is at a delicate stage.

Old Harbour understands that the fiery attack stems from a longstanding feud between men from the houses that were destroyed last night and another group of residents living in the same community.

No one was injured in the attack, however, People's National Party (PNP) councillor/caretaker candidate for Old Harbour Central Division, Obryan Leighton is appealing to the public to assist the affected residents.

"I must say because these persons are actually known to me and live within close proximity to me it’s hit hard and I'm very disheartened by the situation; and I pledge to lend as much support as I possibly can," said Leighton. "I am appealing to constituents and the corporate entities in Old Harbour and outside of Old Harbour to help as much as they can so that these five men can be able to get some assistance in either refurbishing or remodeling a home for then or if it's a case where they can support with food supplies, clothing, whatever it be."

It took firefighters from Spanish Town and Old Harbour stations several hours to extinguish the blaze and bring the situation under control.

The situation also caused a long line of traffic either side of the Panton Lane and East Street intersection as the police quickly implemented control measures to allow for emergency crews to gain quick access in and out of the narrow lane.

Investigation continues.