NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – Authorities have launched a formal investigation into a fire incident that broke out early Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at AME University’s main campus on Camp Johnson Road, even as academic activities have fully resumed following what officials described as a rapid and coordinated emergency response.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
The fire, which occurred inside Hatcher Hall, was successfully contained before it could spread beyond the affected area, according to a statement from the university administration. No casualties were reported.
Preliminary accounts indicate that the incident was first detected and confronted by students and members of the university’s internal security team, who reportedly acted as first responders. Their immediate use of strategically placed fire extinguishers is said to have significantly slowed the spread of the blaze before external emergency teams arrived.
The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), working in coordination with the Liberia National Police, later took full control of the scene and extinguished the fire completely. Officials have since confirmed that containment was achieved within a short period, preventing what could have been extensive structural damage to the facility.
As part of the ongoing investigation, LNFS technicians are examining the origin and possible cause of the fire in collaboration with the university’s security unit. While no official findings have been released, authorities are expected to assess both electrical systems and other potential ignition sources within the building.
University officials have praised what they described as “effective preparedness measures,” pointing to prior fire warden training conducted by the LNFS for staff. The administration also credited the presence of fire safety equipment across campus and the coordinated response of students, staff, and security personnel for limiting the impact of the incident.
“The prompt action of our internal responders and the professionalism of national emergency services were critical in bringing the situation under control,” the university noted.
Despite the disruption, AME University confirmed that academic activities resumed shortly after the situation was stabilized, with classes continuing normally across campus.
The institution has reiterated its commitment to safety and security while urging calm as investigations proceed. Authorities are expected to release further details once forensic and technical assessments of Hatcher Hall are completed.
