By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

Comfort Suites yesterday said it remains open and fully operational following a a fire that struck part of its premises late on Monday afternoon.

In a statement, the Paradise Island resort confirmed a minor electrical blaze erupted at its premises due to a lightning strike during a severe afternoon thunderstorm. It said the incident was contained swiftly, with no injuries reported and no damage to guest areas.

“On Monday, September 8, 2025, Paradise Island experienced severe afternoon thunderstorms, during which our transformer was affected by a lightning strike. This occurrence, not human error, led to a small fire erupting in our basement,” said the resort.

Comfort Suites said the fire was contained to the hotel’s electrical room, which houses its transformer, and did not spread to other parts of the property. The hotel added that its guest areas, including rooms, the lobby and public spaces, remained unaffected.

“We are pleased to advise that damage is limited to our electrical room which houses our transformer, and elated to share that no one was injured. Our hotel is laid out in two wings; luckily, no damage was sustained to our guests’ areas, including sleeping rooms, public spaces and our lobby. We are open and remain viable to welcoming you to enjoy,” Comfort Suites said.

The hotel also praised the swift action of an employee, who acted immediately to suppress the fire before emergency crews arrived, and acknowledged the rapid response of emergency personnel in helping bring the situation under control.

“One of our employees, Ken Rolle, was in the area and sprung into immediate action to extinguish the blaze. Ken is our very own hero and a true champion.  His quick thinking aided the mitigation of a larger catastrophe,” the resort added.

“The Royal Bahamas Police Force fire services and The Royal Bahamas Police Force arrived promptly when contacted and acted quickly. We are sincerely grateful for their swift vigilance.”