Last Updated on Sunday, 9 March 2025, 21:25 by Writer
In the wake of Saturday night’s death of a fireman, while he was hospitalised for severe injuries sustained during last Wednesday’s fire at Mae’s School, the Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday disclosed that a total of four firefighters were injured at the scene.
Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn’s disclosure is believed to be the first time that the government has said that firefighters were injured while combatting the inferno in Subryanville, Greater Georgetown.
He identified the others injured as Sub-Officer Ian Burnette, Sub-Officer Dwayne Waldron, and Fireman Jouner Morrison, who were successfully treated and subsequently discharged. “Their courage and dedication in responding to this catastrophic fire are commendable, and we are grateful for their service,” he said.
Mr Benn also paid tribute to fireman 1871 Vashaun Manbodh, 27, who died at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC). He said during the operation, Manbodh sustained severe injuries when portions of the roof and wall of the building collapsed, resulting in reported fractures to his neck leading in impaired motor function. He said the Ministry of Home Affairs, through with the Guyana Fire Service, would provide full support to Fireman Manbodh’s family during this extremely difficult time.
“At just 27 years old, he risked his life to protect others, a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service. He was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he regrettably succumbed to his injuries. Fireman Manbodh’s heroic efforts will not be forgotten. He, along with his colleagues, displayed great courage in the face of grave danger, by placing the safety of others above his own. His passing is a great loss to the Guyana Fire Service,” the minister said.
While Minister Benn said an investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the death and injuries to the firemen, the GPHC refused to speculate on what might have caused Manbodh to succumb. In the wake of grave concerns about several instances of alleged negligence that the family claims led to his demise, the GPHC said an immediate investigation has been launched into Manbodh’s death by a purely independent panel of experts. “In response to concerns surrounding this case, GPHC has launched an immediate investigation, led by a panel chaired by a senior clinician from outside the institution. This panel comprises both external and internal medical specialists to ensure a thorough and objective review. We remain committed to transparency and will provide updates as the investigation progresses,” the publicly owned healthcare facility said in a statement.
The GPHC highlighted its track record in successfully treating servicemen and women. “We assure the public that GPHC remains steadfast in its commitment to the highest standards of medical care. Our institution has a strong track record of successfully treating and discharging servicemen and women injured while carrying out their duties,” the hospital said.
The hospital recently treated and discharged six Guyana Defence Force soldiers, including one with a gunshot wound to his head, during a shootout with Venezuelans on the bordering Cuyuni River.
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