Helicopter crash: Soldiers died from burns, multiple injuries

Autopsies conducted on the bodies of five Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks who perished in a horrific helicopter accident on December 6 have revealed that they died from multiple injuries and burns.

The autopsies were done on December 11 by Government pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh and witnessed by a  Detective Inspector.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud and Warrant Officer Class 2 Jason Khan died from multiple injuries.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles’ body was completely burnt according to the Police but he was identified through his name tag on part of his uniform that was intact. His cause of death was given as burns.

Retired Brigadier Gary Beaton’s body was also burnt but he was identified via his “upper front dentures,” the Police release noted. His cause of death was given as burns along with Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome.

“DNA samples were taken from the Burned victims and their relatives. Their bodies were thereafter handed over to the relatives for burial,” the Police said.

The five fallen heroes were on a mission to the border regions when tragedy struck. Two officers survived the crash.