Guyana: Two dead after Coast Guard vessel collides with civilian boat
At least two individuals lost their lives following a collision between a Coast Guard vessel and a civilian boat in the Moruca River in Region One (Barima Waini) on Friday morning.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) confirmed that the Coast Guard Raiders Craft 17 (RC 17) was involved in the accident, which occurred around 06:45 hrs (local time).
According to reports, the Coast Guard vessel was en route to Santa Rosa when the collision transpired during a turn maneuver.
Fatalities
The civilian boat, carrying three adults and an infant, bore the brunt of the impact. The operator of the unnamed civilian vessel and the mother of the infant succumbed to their injuries.
Both victims were pronounced dead upon arrival at the Charity Hospital. Their identities have not been disclosed.
Response and investigations
Following the tragic incident, the damaged Coast Guard vessel was escorted to the base in the Pomeroon River for assessment and necessary measures.
The Guyana Defence Force, led by Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, expressed profound condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the accident, emphasizing solidarity during this challenging period.
Meanwhile, the Guyana Police Force has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision, aiming to ascertain factors contributing to the fatal encounter.
