Tragedy struck on the Mazaruni River near BK Quarries Inc, late Friday night when two boats collided, resulting in the death of one individual.
The incident occurred around 23:50h.
Dead is Oswald Hudson Jr, also known as ‘Sadie’, of Lot 1 First Avenue, Bartica.
Investigations reveal that Shavez Thomas, 29, a boat captain from Itaballi Landing, was returning home from Bartica with a passenger in his wooden boat, powered by a 200-horsepower Yamaha outboard engine.
Meanwhile, Oswald Hudson Sr, 60, also a boat captain and resident of Lot 1 First Avenue, Bartica, was traveling from Itaballi Landing to Bartica. He was accompanied by five passengers, including two minors and his son, Oswald Jr., in his wooden boat powered by a 75-horsepower Yamaha engine.
The boats that collided in the Mazaruni River
Reports indicate that Thomas’s boat was equipped with lights, and all passengers were wearing life jackets. Despite this, the two boats collided head-on, sending all occupants into the water.
Local residents quickly responded, using their boats to rescue six individuals from the river. They were taken to Third Avenue Beach, where further assistance was provided before transporting them to Bartica Regional Hospital. The survivors are currently receiving medical. However, Oswald Jr, 29, a driver, was not recovered at the scene, and both boats sank due to extensive damage.
On Saturday morning his body was found floating near the Mazaruni Prison. It was retrieved and taken to Bartica Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Upon examination, a gaping wound was observed on his forehead and left knee. His body is now at the Memorial Funeral Home.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the accident.
