Comedian and educator, 51-year-old Kirwyn Mars, popularly known as “Sir Mars” was laid to rest on Tuesday, leaving an indelible void in the hearts of hundreds who gathered to bid farewell.
The atmosphere was tinged with both sadness and gratitude as people from all walks of life paid their final respects.
“Sir Mars”, known for his infectious laughter, quick wit, and wisdom, was not only a master of comedy but also a dedicated teacher who inspired countless individuals. Through his unique blend of humour and educational insight, he had the remarkable ability to make learning an enjoyable experience, leaving an everlasting impact on generations of students.
As news of his passing spread, an outpouring of grief swept across the nation. From students who had been uplifted by his words to fellow comedians who considered him a mentor and friend, the tributes poured in, painting a vivid picture of a man who had left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who knew him.
The funeral service, held on the tarmac of the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown, and later to Vergenoegen, Greenwich Park, Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, adorned with flowers and photographs capturing the vibrant spirit of “Sir Mars”, was a testament to the impact he had on the lives of so many. The atmosphere was both solemn and celebratory, reflecting the joy he had brought to countless individuals throughout his illustrious career.
Eulogies and speeches filled the air, painting a vivid tapestry of memories and shared experiences. Friends, family, and colleagues took turns expressing their admiration and gratitude for the man who had become a beacon of light in their lives. Tears flowed freely, mingling with laughter as stories of his comedic genius and compassionate nature unfolded.
As the casket was lowered into the ground, a collective sigh resonated through the crowd—a poignant moment of realisation that a luminary was lost. Yet, amidst the sorrow, there was also a prevailing sense of gratitude for the time they had spent in the presence of him.
The body of “Sir Mars” was found pinned between his car and the fence of an apartment building at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara (EBD), last Sunday. An autopsy revealed that he was stabbed eight times, including to his chest, right shoulder, collarbone, left hand, and right elbow, and given the cause of his death as injuries to the chest as a result of being crushed, compounded by “multiple cutaneous wounds.”
It has been reported that two days after committing the crime, the suspect, 24-year-old Brian Richards, was apprehended at his workplace in Georgetown. He subsequently allegedly confessed to the murder.
He detailed that, on the day in question, he and Mars arrived at the Green City Bar in Georgetown, where they consumed about two cases of beer altogether before departing the bar to travel to Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD), via the Mandela-Eccles Highway.
But on their way to that location, a misunderstanding arose between them and a scuffle ensued.
The murder accused related that, during the argument, he picked up a bottle and struck Mars to the head, but in retaliation, Mars collected a knife that was in the car and attacked him. He alleged that he managed to relieve Mars of the knife, and in turn, stabbed him several times.
He further told investigators that after receiving the stab wounds, Mars brought the car to a stop at a location in Providence, EBD, then exited from the driver’s seat and walked to the back of the vehicle.
Richards said while he was trying to retrieve his phone, which had fallen in the car during the scuffle, his hand touched the lever and accidentally put the car in reverse, ultimately crushing Mars. After realising that Mars was motionless, he said, he panicked and fled the scene.
He was later charged and appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce for the capital offence. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge. He was represented by Attorney-at-Law Bernard DaSilva and was remanded to prison until June 23.
The preliminary inquiry (PI) into the matter will commence on August 7. (G9)
