Mellieħa Minibus Blaze: Business Owner’s livelihood Destroyed
Fireball in Mellieħa: Minibus Reduced to Chassis in Overnight Blaze
As dawn broke over the sleepy town of Mellieħa, residents awoke to a scene straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster. A minibus, parked along the quiet Triq il-Qajjet, was nothing more than a smoldering shell, its charred remains a stark contrast to the picturesque street lined with traditional Maltese balconadas.
Firefighters Battle the Blaze
The blaze, which started around 3:30 AM, saw the Mellieħa Fire Station spring into action. Three fire appliances, including the station’s water tanker, rushed to the scene. It took firefighters over an hour to bring the inferno under control, with the last of the flames finally extinguished just before 5 AM.
“We received several calls from concerned residents,” said a spokesperson for the Malta Fire Authority. “The minibus was well alight by the time we arrived, but we managed to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby vehicles and buildings.”
Minibus Owner Left in Shock
The minibus, a white 16-seater, belonged to local resident and small business owner, Joseph Xuereb. “I’ve had that minibus for over 10 years,” Xuereb said, still visibly shaken. “It was my livelihood, you know? I used it for tours, for weddings, for funerals. Now, it’s just… gone.”
Xuereb had parked the minibus outside his home on Triq il-Qajjet the previous evening, unaware that it would be reduced to a burnt-out husk by morning. He plans to file an insurance claim but is uncertain about the future of his business.
Investigations Underway
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but early indications suggest it may have been electrical in nature. “We’re treating this as an accident at this stage,” said a police spokesperson. “However, we’re keeping an open mind and will explore all possibilities.”
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information is urged to contact the Mellieħa Police Station on 2152 4400.
Community Rallies Around Xuereb
Despite the destruction, the spirit of community in Mellieħa remains undeterred. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Xuereb replace his minibus, with many locals pledging their support. “Joseph is a good man,” said one donor. “He’s always there to help out when needed. It’s our turn to help him now.”
