Berbice man found dead after car crashes into stall, plunges into canal

A 42-year-old Berbice man died early Tuesday after the vehicle he was driving crashed into a roadside stall and plunged into a canal along the Edinburgh Public Road on the East Bank of Berbice.

The deceased has been identified as Oswin Lawson of Lot 46, Stanleytown, New Amsterdam.

Police said the incident occurred around 01:30 hrs when Lawson was driving a motor car along the eastern carriageway at an alleged high speed. Investigators said the driver reportedly lost control, struck a roadside stand on the grass parapet, and subsequently veered into a canal, where the vehicle became submerged.

Lawson was pulled from the vehicle in an unconscious state by members of the public and taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police said several injuries were observed on the body. Authorities have not yet determined whether these were consistent with the impact of the crash or other factors, and investigations are ongoing.

A 21-year-old male contractor is in police custody assisting investigators, police said. No charges have been announced.

An eyewitness, speaking on condition of anonymity, said he heard a loud impact and saw people attempting to assist before emergency responders arrived. He said he was unable to enter the water because he cannot swim.

The witness also claimed the vehicle remained submerged for several minutes before it disappeared fully underwater. These claims have not been independently verified.

Police said they are continuing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash and the man’s death.