A family suffered a devastating loss on November 19th when their property was deliberately set on fire in an act of arson. The blaze destroyed three houses, leaving the property owner, 47-year-old Sandra Isela Catzim, with an estimated loss of $200,000. In response, local leaders, residents, and organizations have united to offer support through fundraisers and direct assistance to Catzim.
Police investigations have not revealed a clear motive for the crime, but Catzim’s daughter, Isela, 27, has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. On Thursday, November 21st, she faced five counts of arson. Unofficial reports suggest that Isela was upset with her mother before she allegedly set the structures on fire. The San Pedro Fire Service responded but could not save the three burned houses.
One of the first organizations to respond to the tragedy was the local branch of the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO). Coordinator Vanessa Parham led the efforts to provide humanitarian assistance. With support from the Human Development Department, Mayor Gualberto “Wally” Nuñez, Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez, and other volunteers, they delivered essential items to the Catzim family.
NEMO arranged to host the affected family at the St. John Paul Youth Center in the San Pablo area; however, they chose to stay with other family members instead. Catzim has also received assistance from her workplace, a hotel that has provided her with temporary accommodation. Meanwhile, Human Development is exploring ways to assist the family with housing while the situation is ongoing.
Fundraisers were held to assist the Catzim family
Several fundraisers have been organized to support the Catzim family during this difficult time. They have lost everything and are grateful for any assistance the community can provide. The Catzim family appreciates everyone who has reached out to offer help.
The San Pedro Lions Club organized the latest fundraiser on Wednesday, November 27th. They held a barbecue sale to raise funds for the family. San Pedro Lions Club President Nesher Acosta reported that the event received significant support from island residents, who purchased food and contributed to a dollar drive on the street. Acosta noted that over 250 plates of food were sold, and all proceeds went directly to assist the Catzim family.
As the family continues to heal from their loss, they are grateful for any assistance offered. Catzim can be reached at 631-2707 or via Facebook at https://shorturl.at/hQLRe. Donations can also be made to her Heritage Bank account under Sandra Isela Catzim, account number #3212575.
NEMO would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has stepped forward to support this family. Since the day of the incident, they acknowledge the contributions of Philip ‘Billy’ Leslie from the Rickilee Rescue Response Team, Island Emergency Services, the San Pedro Fire Service, the staff at Victoria House for their help to the firefighters, Dr. Otto Rodriguez at San Pedro Polyclinic II, the Human Development Department, Area Representative Perez, Hol Chan Marine Reserve staff, and Caribbean Queen Depot for assisting with the transportation of humanitarian aid to the island.
