ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — On Friday, August 1, 2025, at approximately 1:03 p.m., Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) responded to a structure fire at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) Randolph Harley Power Plant facility on St. Thomas.
WAPA personnel safely evacuated the building prior to the arrival of emergency crews, following established emergency procedures. The fire originated in the compressor room of the plant’s garage department, located adjacent to the main power plant. VIFEMS units from Echo, Tango, Hotel, and Lima Companies responded and brought the fire under control within approximately 30 minutes. No injuries were reported.
According to the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority, there was no disruption to plant operations or electrical service as a result of the fire.
“The coordination between agencies ensured that the situation was brought under control without injuries or disruption to utility services,” said VIFEMS Director Antonio Stevens. I want to thank our firefighters for their swift response and professionalism in managing this incident, as well as the WAPA personnel who acted quickly to evacuate and support the response.”