A 21-year-old man appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly yesterday accused of murdering his cousin-in-law Jason Ramatar of Lot 723 Third Field, Kaneville, East Bank Demerara last Sunday after he was stabbed to the throat.Ryan Van Lange was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on Sunday, May 31, he murdered Ramatar at Kaneville. Ramatar, 24 years, was a father of one.

Van Lange, of Lot 69 First Street, Kaneville was represented by attorney-at-law, Mr. Dexter Todd. The lawyer noted that a motion was filed in the High court in relation to the matter.

Todd said the police are proceeding with the matter although the file was never sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.

The Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant, told the court that on the day in question the family had a birthday celebration and around 03:00hrs the deceased and the defendant had a heated argument over the purchasing of more rum. It was alleged that a fight ensued and the accused armed himself with a kitchen knife. He then confronted Ramatar and dealt him three stabs – to the mouth, neck and throat.
Ramatar was rushed to the Diamond Hospital, East Bank Demerara where he succumbed to his injuries. The accused was arrested and investigations led to the murder charge. The matter was adjourned until June 8 for statements.

By Clestine Juan