Red Cross volunteer who helped remove 6 women killed in store fire commits suicide in Barbados

Barbados Red Cross volunteer hangs self after fire

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — A Red Cross volunteer who helped remove the bodies of six women killed in a weekend fire set by robbers at a clothing store has committed suicide, relatives said Wednesday.

Aldo Babb was found hanged at his home Monday, stepson Shamar Alleyne said, adding that the family believes it was a suicide although there was no note. Police have not ruled on the case and declined comment.

Babb was a 39-year-old father of four who worked full-time in the laundry department at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Alleyne said. It was unclear how long Babb had worked as a Red Cross volunteer. Red Cross officials did not return calls for comment.

Babb’s death came amid criticism from police about Babb and others, including family members, removing bodies from a crime scene without permission.

The deaths shocked many in the tranquil Caribbean island where crime is rare and usually involves petty theft.

Police say two men demanded money before they set the Campus Trendz Boutique on fire late Friday. Three store employees and three customers became trapped when they ran to the back of the store to escape the fire, authorities said. No arrests have been made.

Government officials have since called for updating laws to require that every building, regardless of size, have more than one exit.

Engineer Greenville Phillips said fire fighters will inspect all buildings in upcoming weeks to ensure they have a minimum of two fire extinguishers.