Family of Deceased GDF Sergeant Raises Concerns Over Lack of Safety Protocols

Family of Deceased GDF Sergeant Raises Concerns Over Lack of Safety Protocols

Family of Deceased GDF Sergeant Raises Concerns Over Lack of Safety Protocols

The family of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Sergeant Deslyn Nicholson is seeking answers following her tragic death in a fatal accident along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway during a military walk on Wednesday night. Questions have been raised regarding the absence of necessary safety mechanisms and protocols during the walk, prompting concerns over negligence on the part of the organizers and the army.

Nicholson’s cousin, Wonnetta Nicholson, expressed dismay over the reported lack of safety measures during the annual 30km walk, which commenced from Red Ground, Timehri to Camp Stephenson. Among the concerns raised were whether the ranks participating in the walk were equipped with reflective vests or escorted by police or military vehicles to ensure visibility and safety on the dark highway.

The accident occurred around 21:00hrs near the Splashmins Fun Park, where Nicholson and two colleagues, Staff Sergeant Kwame Reid and Lance Corporal Kelly Jackson, were struck by a truck. It was later revealed by the Guyana Police Force that none of the soldiers were wearing reflective vests, nor were there any visible safety indicators to alert motorists of the ongoing walk.

Wonnetta Nicholson emphasized the family’s belief that negligence played a significant role in the accident, citing the dark conditions of the highway and the lack of visibility due to the soldiers’ dark-colored clothing. The truck driver, a resident of Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, reportedly claimed he did not see the soldiers until it was too late.

According to police reports, the driver attempted to avoid colliding with the soldiers but was unsuccessful due to the short distance. Nicholson was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Diamond Diagnostic Center, while the other two soldiers were treated and discharged. The driver underwent a breathalyzer test, which returned negative for alcohol.

In response to the incident, the GDF announced that a Board of Inquiry will be conducted in accordance with its Standard Operating Procedures. Meanwhile, the family continues to seek answers and justice for Sergeant Deslyn Nicholson, whose tragic death has sparked concerns over safety protocols during military activities on public roads.

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