Van carrying school children overturns into sea at Owia

The nation has been thrown into a state of mourning after a mini van carrying school children and three other persons overturned at a location between Fancy and Owia, and plunged into the sea below.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves addressed the nation earlier this morning, describing the tragedy as “an extremely sad moment”{{more}}. At present, the authorities have confirmed five deaths, with two other individuals still missing.

“A few students have been recovered in various states of injuries, but there are several others who are not yet recovered,” announced the Prime Minister.

Ten persons were hospitalized at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) in Kingstown, and four were taken to the Georgetown Hospital.

Gonsalves said that the Coast Guard and other medical services were dispatched to the scene at Rock Gutter but rescue and recovery efforts were hampered by the rough currents of the sea.

“I want to assure everyone that they have been mobilized, and we are working.”

The Prime Minister also said that as a result of this morning’s tragedy, today’s Budget has been postponed by unanimous decision until tomorrow (Tuesday, January 13), at the same time. Additionally, visiting times to the MCMH have been temporarily suspended – only those with critically ill family members at the hospital will be allowed entry.

“What is happening today is of utmost priority,” he asserted. “We pray for our children and all those who have suffered in this accident – for the parents and all the members of their families.”

Ministerial officers and public servants attended the scene of the accident at Owia, as well as at the MCMH in Kingstown.