One man is now dead while his sister remains in a critical condition following a boat collision along the Aruka River, Region One (Barima-Waini) on Friday.
The dead man has been identified as 20-year-old Ken Wells, a farmer from Barima River. His sister, Loraine Wells, remains hospitalised in critical condition.
According to reports received, on the day in question, a 150-horsepower (hp) wooden boat, captained by 20-year-old Tirisa Allen, collided with a 15-hp balahoo, which was transporting seven passengers and captained by Andrea Albert.
At about 15:00h, Allen left the Kumaka Waterfront and was heading to Imbitero when heavy downpours resulted in restricted visibility thus causing the collision.
Allen reportedly rendered assistance and all occupants were retrieved from the water. They were subsequently taken to the Mabaruma hospital where Ken Wells was pronounced dead.
In light of the boat accident, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has launched an investigation.
