The Regional Police Command has confirmed the death of 16-year-old Justin Smith, a resident of No. 47 Village, following a collision with a row plough on July 13, 2025. Initially suspected of dying from chop wounds after an altercation, further investigations and a post-mortem examination revealed that his death resulted from the vehicular accident.
According to Regional Police Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus, the incident occurred at No. 43 Village, Corentyne. Eyewitness accounts indicate that Justin, who had reportedly been consuming alcohol earlier in the evening, approached a group of men—Mukesh Edwards, 23, Hemesh Harrinarine (known as Andy), and Alim Haripersaud—on his motorcycle before the crash.
Witnesses reported that Justin made a gesture towards the group shortly before veering off course and colliding with the row plough parked nearby. Harrinarine confirmed hearing the crash and saw Justin’s motorcycle collide with the plough, although he denied any aggressive interaction with the teenager.
Tensions reportedly escalated later that evening between Edwards and Harrinarine regarding the events leading up to the accident. Both maintained their accounts of the situation.
CCTV footage reviewed by investigators showed Justin speeding while attempting to overtake another vehicle before losing control and crashing into the plough, which bore evidence of the collision, including scratches and remnants from the motorcycle.
Justin sustained severe injuries to his back and head and was found in critical condition near a chicken outlet at Number 46 Village. He was initially taken to Port Mourant Public Hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries while being transferred to New Amsterdam Public Hospital for further care.
A post-mortem examination conducted on July 17 confirmed that Justin died from shock and hemorrhage due to multiple injuries consistent with a vehicular accident. An investigative file has been compiled and submitted for legal consultation, and an inquest into the circumstances surrounding Justin Smith’s death has been initiated.
The community mourns the loss of a young life and awaits further developments in the investigation.
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