Several businesses were shut down and scores of employees evacuated when the Tao restaurant on Knutsford Boulevard in New Kingston went up in flames following an explosion yesterday morning.

When the Jamaica Observer visited the scene, debris was scattered across the street and the police had cordoned off Trinidad Terrace and sections of Knutsford Boulevard.

Three fire units were also on the scene as firefighters worked to contain the blaze.

Speaking with the Observer, an employee wearing a shirt with the restaurant’s logo said, “Mi neva see the explosion, neva see nothing ’cause mi work roun’ a di front. Mi just hear di explosion and run out.”

The Total gas station in the vicinity was shut down following the explosion.

Several buildings were evacuated, including the Jamaica National Money Shop, the Jollywood Movie Theatre, Triple Century Sports Bar and Grill, and Juici Patties.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/new-kgn-restaurant-burnt-after-explosion_189295