Family claims of negligence prompts GPHC to probe fireman’s death

Last Updated on Sunday, 9 March 2025, 11:55 by Writer

One of three firemen, who were injured while battling the blaze that destroyed Mae’s School in Subryanville, Georgetown, died Saturday night at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), prompting claims by his family of hospital negligence.

Voshaun Manbodh (1871), 27, was injured on February 5 when the burning structure collapsed on him and two other colleagues.

GPHC Chief Executive Officer Robbie Rambarran briefly told Demerara Waves Online News that an independent panel would investigate the claims by Manbodh’s mother. “There will be a thorough investigation. There will be independent members on the investigating panel,” he said ahead of a statement to be issued.

Fire Chief, Gregory Wickham said in a statement that Manbodh served with honor, bravery, and commitment, embodying the true spirit of a firefighter who risked everything to protect the lives and safety of others. “His courage and selflessness will forever be etched in the history of the Guyana Fire Service, as he was another great firefighter who laid down his life on the call of duty. Today, we salute his heroism and acknowledge his invaluable contribution to our service and country,” Mr Wickham said.

In a statement issued by his family, they said he was admitted on February 5 , having sustained two fractures in his neck, impaired motor function, and a hearing impediment.

The family said that on Thursday, Manbodh was communicating normally, as well as taking phone calls and speaking coherently but his condition deteriorated over the next few days. “Following this observation, the approaching days saw his condition steadily worsening instead of improving due to delayed medical interventions, inadequate monitoring, and critical lapses in care,” the family said in a statement published by News Source.

The family alleged that Manbodh fell off the bed but that was not told to them, and his urinary catheter and intravenous hydration were removed by a nurse. They said it was only after the doctor ordered that the IV line be reconnected that that was done.

“Despite requiring urgent neurological evaluation, his MRI scan was painstakingly delayed, initially scheduled for 1:30 PM at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital but postponed due to poor preparation by hospital staff. When they finally attempted to take him for the scan after 2 PM, there was a last-minute failure to properly sedate him, leading to further delays and distress,” the family added.

The family also alleged that despite the severity of his injuries, Manbodh was placed in the general Male Surgical Ward, receiving no specialized neurological care or advanced medical attention.