Warapoka businessman dies in boat accident

Vanwest Charles, a 26-year-old businessman of the Warapoka Village in the North West District, Region One (Barima- Waini) died on Friday afternoon following a boat accident.

Police Headquarters reported that the incident sometime around 17:00 hrs.

Noel Malvin Evans, a 43-year-old boat captain of Charity Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, reportedly told Police that he was travelling along the ‘99 Turns’ river in the North West District with six passengers when a smaller boat, captained by Vanwest Charles, collided with his vessel.

Evans reportedly noted that Charles was speeding and attempted to turn away from Evans’ vessel, but the back portion of his Charles’l boat crashed into the bow of his.

After the vessels collided, Charles and his boat engine fell into the river. Charles was subsequently taken for medical attention in Moruca. He was, however, pronounced dead by a doctor at the Kumaka District Hospital.

The body is currently at the Kumaka District Hospital’s Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Police said statements were taken from all the passengers who corroborated Evans’ story.

No foul play is suspected but Evans was placed into custody as investigations continue.