Fmr. Toshao dies after river mishap

A tragic incident in the Corentyne River has resulted in the death of boat captain Glen DeVair, 65, known as ‘Shiko,’ and left nurse Shunika Williams, 29, hospitalised.

DeVair, a former Toshao of Orealla and an ambulance captain employed by the Health Ministry, was operating the Orealla/Siparuta River Ambulance at the time of the mishap.

The incident unfolded between 01:00 hrs and 11:30 hrs on Saturday.

The News Room understands DeVair was transporting a patient and the nurse to Skeldon Hospital in Corriverton, Berbice. However, the boat later struck a tree.

When ambulance failed to make its scheduled return, a search party was promptly dispatched. The vessel was later discovered wedged between trees on the left bank of the Corentyne River.

Tragically, DeVair was found dead, while Williams, who is reportedly pregnant, was discovered unconscious. She was first taken to the Skeldon Hospital and then to New Amsterdam Hospital for further treatment.

Investigations into the incident are actively underway.