20-Y-0 dies from fractured spine during ‘football game’; mother claims he was beaten to death

Police are investigating the death of a 20-year-old gold miner who received severe injuries during a game of football on July 3 at Armu Backdam, Cuyuni Backdam, Region 7.

Rickford Newton of Byderabo, Bartica sustained injuries to his skull, his neck, spine; his arms and legs were also broken. His teammates told Police that he “jumped” to catch the ball when he fell and sustained the injuries.

Newton was taken to the Bartica Regional Hospital in an unconscious state and then transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he died on July 8 without regaining consciousness.

A post mortem examination done on Friday by Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh revealed that Newton died as a result of a fractured spine.

His mother, Carol Newton is now claiming that he was beaten by his employer.

During an interview with the News Room, the distraught woman said the men “dropped” her son off at the hospital and left him there. She received a telephone call from hospital officials informing her about his condition.

The mother of five said Rickford opened his eyes once just before he passed away in the Intensive Care Unit.

“When I go to ask him – son what happened, he shut his eyes and that was it,” the grieving mother said.

According to her, the employer owed her son money for work he had done and she believes this is what caused his death.

Rickford worked in the mining area for about four months.

“I want justice for my son,” the mother said.

She said to date, the employer is yet to make contact with her.

When contacted Regional Commander Senior Superintendent Linden Lord told the News Room that an investigation will be done into the allegations made by the family. At the time the Commander spoke with the News Room, Police ranks were heading to the area.