Fatal Accident Involving GDF Soldier Under Investigation in Madewini

Fatal Accident Involving GDF Soldier Under Investigation in Madewini

Fatal Accident Involving GDF Soldier Under Investigation in Madewini

A tragic accident at Madewini, Soesdyke Linden Highway, has claimed the life of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) soldier, Sergeant Deslyn Nicholson, prompting a thorough investigation by the authorities. The incident occurred around 21:00 hrs on Wednesday, in the vicinity of Splashmins Fun Park, involving a motor lorry and three pedestrians, all members of the GDF.

Sergeant Nicholson, along with GDF Staff Sergeant Kwame Reid and Lance Corporal Kelly Jackson, were participating in the GDF 30km Annual walk, which commenced from Red Ground Timehri to Camp Stephenson. The soldiers were walking along the eastern side of Madewini Road when the accident transpired.

According to preliminary investigations, the lorry driver, a 26-year-old from Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, was traveling south along the eastern side of the road when he encountered the pedestrians. Allegedly, the soldiers were walking three abreast and were not wearing reflective vests, lights, or other warning devices. The area was reportedly dark due to the absence of street lights.

In an attempt to avoid a collision, the driver applied brakes, but the left side front of his vehicle collided with the pedestrians. All three soldiers fell onto the road surface, sustaining injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, Sergeant Nicholson succumbed to her injuries, while the other two soldiers were treated and discharged.

Following the accident, a breathalyzer test was administered to the lorry driver, revealing no presence of alcohol in his system. Nevertheless, he is currently in custody, cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, along with Officers and Ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, have extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Sergeant Deslyn Nicholson. The tragic loss has cast a somber mood over the military community, as investigations continue to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Sergeant Nicholson’s body has been transferred to Memorial Gardens Funeral Home Mortuary for cold storage, pending a post-mortem examination, while authorities work diligently to ascertain the details of the incident.

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