Police say Corentyne teen died after collision with row plough

Justin Smith, the 16-year-old resident of No. 47 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) died after colliding with a row plough, according to information provided by Regional Police Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus.

It was initially believed that the teenager died from chop wounds after he was attacked by a group of men. However, Mr. Bacchus related that further investigations and a post-mortem examination point to Justin dying due to a collision with a row plough.

The fatal incident reportedly took place on July 13, 2025, at No. 43 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

The News Room was told that Mukesh Edwards, 23, along with Hemesh Harrinarine (known as Andy) and Alim Haripersaud, were reportedly consuming alcohol when Justin approached on his motorcycle earlier that evening. He reportedly made some gesture at the group.

It is believed that Justin crashed into the row plough nearby not long after.

Harrinarine confirmed his presence at the scene, acknowledged hearing the crash, and observed Justin’s motorcycle collide with a plough on the northern parapet. However, when questioned by investigators, he denied making any aggressive gestures at Justin. He claimed he left to seek help and returned to find others already assisting.

At about 20:00 hrs, it was noted that tensions escalated between Edwards and Harrinarine when they confronted each other regarding the events leading up to the crash. Edwards reiterated his account, while Harrinarine maintained he did not act aggressively.

Following the crash, multiple witnesses reportedly provided statements that indicated Justin had been consuming alcoholic beverages at a Chinese supermarket in No. 47 Village before leaving alone on his motorcycle.

Based on the information provided by Commander Bacchus, CCTV footage shows Justin speeding as he attempted to overtake another vehicle before veering off course and crashing into the southern grass parapet where the red row plow was stationed.

The row plough had several scratches, fabric remnants, sponge (from the motorcycle seat), leather, and a black wristband.

And as a result of the collision, Justin sustained serious injuries to his back, head, and other areas of his body.

He was discovered in critical condition in front of a chicken outlet at Number 46 Village, and subsequently transported to Port Mourant Public Hospital. He tragically succumbed to his injuries while being transferred to New Amsterdam Public Hospital for further medical attention.

A post-mortem examination conducted on July 17 confirmed that Justin died from shock and hemorrhage caused by multiple injuries consistent with a vehicular accident.

An investigative file was compiled and submitted for legal consultation. On Friday, July 18, 2025, the file returned, prompting an inquest into the circumstances surrounding Justin Smith’s death.