1 killed following series of accidents leading to Rupununi Rodeo

The ongoing Rupununi Rodeo was overshadowed by a series of unfortunate vehicular accidents that took place along the trail heading to Lethem on Thursday into Friday. At least one person has reportedly died while several others are injured.
The dead man has been identified as 28-year-old Abdul Straker of Robb Street, Bourda, Georgetown, while those injured are Winton Daniels, 28, of Mocha Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara; Keswin Howes, 23, of Providence, EBD; Robin McKenzie, 29, of Robb Street, Bourda; Kevin James, 29, of Robb Street, Bourda and Kenrick Brathwaite, 28, of Mocha EBD.

With respect to the fatal accident, Police stated that the driver of vehicle PRR 4027 was speeding south along the eastern side of the trail and while negotiating a bend, he reportedly lost control of the vehicle, which turned turtle. It reportedly came to a halt on the eastern side of the trail.
As a result, the driver and the five occupants received injuries and were picked up in a conscious condition by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where Straker died while receiving medical attention.
The driver and the four other occupants were treated and admitted to the hospital.
Photos and videos of multiple accidents on the Lethem Trail have been circulating on social media, depicting a large entourage of vehicles heading to the event.
Prior to the rodeo, authorities had urged all participants and spectators to exercise caution while travelling to and from the event. The Police Traffic Department implored everyone to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Sadly, this is not the first time accidents have occurred along the Lethem Trail during the rodeo weekend. Last year, an accident in the Tabatinga area left several people injured.
The repeated occurrence of such accidents highlights the need for increased attention to safety and caution during the rodeo weekend.