Cayman mother-of-three Jasmine McKenzie is reportedly fighting for her life in a New York hospital after suffering life-threatening injuries following a fire Tuesday morning.

Initial reports earlier on Tuesday had suggested that McKenzie, who works at A. L. Thompson’s, had died in the fire that occurred in a Staten Island apartment building.

However, Larry Thompson, development manager at the local hardware store, told the Cayman Compass Tuesday afternoon that the 44-year-old woman, originally from Jamaica, was in critical condition.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with [her family]. We’re still hanging on to hope. Our understanding is that the next 48 hours are very critical. So we want everyone to please think of her and continue to pray for her. Every little bit helps,” Thompson said.

According to a US media report, the fire was reported at 7:19am on the sixth floor of the seven-storey building at 195 Steuben Street, Staten Island. The cause of the fire was not released. About 60 firefighters and 12 units battled the blaze, according to the report.

Thompson said McKenzie, her husband and two of their three children were in in New York visiting relatives for the summer holidays.

A. L. Thompson’s hardware store closed for business on Tuesday morning, after news of the tragedy, which indicated she had died, reached staff, who were too upset to work, and some of whom collapsed, Thompson said.

He said relatives later clarified, to his relief, that she was still alive, but in critical condition.

He said McKenzie has been employed at the store since 2004 and recalled hiring her himself.

Saying she was “well loved”, Thompson said all the staff was “devastated by the very shocking news”.

He said the store will resume operations Wednesday morning.

McKenzie’s husband is employed with the Foster’s Group and, on Tuesday, a spokesperson for the company shared similar sentiments, wishing the family well during this difficult time.

“Foster’s and A. L. Thompson are in communication with the family and we’re working to provide support however best we can. We will continue to extend our heartfelt wishes as we fervently hope for the most favorable outcome,” the spokesperson told the Compass in an emailed statement.