By Royan Abrams & Delicia Fletcher
A 17 year old resident of the Alpha Children’s Home located at Gay Park, New Amsterdam, Berbice was placed on $350,000 bail when he appeared in the Reliance Magistrates’ Court to answer to the charge of manslaughter today (Thursday December 29,2016.)
The teen pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him by Magistrate Marissa Mittleholzer who heard the matter in camera.
The charge states that on Saturday December 24, 2016 at Gay Park New Amsterdam, the teen drove a motor vehicle without permission causing an accident which resulted in a shed collapsing on 8 year old Nina Blair who was at the time playing underneath the shed.
Recently the caretaker of the home, Esther Bruyning had told reporters that the teen accelerated rather than stepping on the brakes to stop the car that he was driving without permission and that caused the accident.
News Room understands that the Nina who was playing beneath the shed; sustained serious head injuries and was rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital but was later transferred to the Georgetown Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.
During the court proceedings the police prosecutor did not object to bail adding that the teen has never been before the court and he has no prior arrest but asked for substantial bail to be given because a life was lost.
The teen is expected to return to court on February 16, 2016.
Meanwhile, Social Protection Minister, Volda Lawrence says her ministry will be assisting with the funeral arrangements which will be held tomorrow (Friday, December 30, 2016).
She has also indicated that her ministry is working with the caregivers of the Alpha Children’s Home to ensure that the teen is provided for during this period.
