New Amsterdam woman killed in hit and run

Police are investigating a hit-and-run accident which caused the death of a 39-year-old woman, Raquel Edwards of Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice. The accident occurred on the Fort Canje Public Road, New Amsterdam, Berbice at approximately 20:30hrs on Saturday.

Police said Edwards, a mother of one, was proceeding east along the northern side of the road when she was struck down by motorcar PNN3631 which was proceeding in the same direction.

The motorcar was driven by a 34 -year- old mechanic of Stevedore, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown who fled the scene after the accident.

A source told the News Room the driver “panicked” and sped away. He visited a relative’s home where he contacted the police.

Police said the driver was arrested and passed a breathalyzer test. He told the police that the pedal cyclist suddenly turned right into his path and a collision occurred.

As a result of the impact, Edwards pitched into the air and landed approximately 148 feet away from the point of impact on the opposite side of the road, the News Room learnt.

She was taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital in an unconscious state where she succumbed to her injuries two hours later while receiving medical attention.

Edwards’ sister, Fern Edwards said the woman was due to celebrate her 40th birthday on Monday.

The woman said she received a call from a colleague who works at the New Amsterdam Psychiatric Hospital informing her that her sister was involved in the accident.

“When I reach the hospital the doctor told me she was hit and the car speed away and she didn’t make it,” Fern said.

The woman explained her sister collects scrap iron and would sell it to make a living. She was on her way home when the incident occurred.

“The way she was hit the driver was totally wrong, he was speeding cause she damage up, he couldn’t be driving at a normal rate,” the grieving sister told the News Room as she called for a thorough investigation into the accident.

The Driver remains in custody assisting with the investigation.