Forty-eight-year-old Carlton Lynton, a hot dog vendor from East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, is seeking assistance to restart his business after it was destroyed by a fire early yesterday morning.
Lynton explained that he had closed his business at around 11:30 pm on Thursday, ensuring that all electrical appliances were unplugged and his gas cylinder was turned off. However, at 5 am yesterday he was alerted by neighbours that his business was engulfed in flames.
“I always make sure to unplug everything before I leave, including the gas cylinder, because I don’t want to risk any accidents,” Lynton said. He now believes the fire was deliberately set, citing previous threats and tension with individuals in the community.
Lynton, who has been running his hot dog business for nearly five years, said the income from the business supported his wife and five children. “This business is what takes care of my family. Without it, we have nothing,” he lamented.
He further disclosed that he has faced threats in the past, including one incident where a man allegedly jumped his fence, terrorised his children, and threatened to kill him. He attributes the hostility to jealousy over his business’ success.
“Some people don’t like to see you doing well,’ Lynton opined. “I sell hot dogs, and people love them because they’re affordable and filling. That’s all it takes for others to become envious.”
Lynton is now appealing to anyone willing to help him rebuild his business so he can continue to support his family. “I’m asking for assistance to start over. This is my only source of income, and my family depends on it.”
Anyone interested in helping Carlton Lynton can contact him at 663-6210.