~ sends regards to friends, family of deceased

FORMER Army Chief of Staff Rear Admiral Gary Best, who is a candidate for the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) + Alliance For change (AFC), has suspended his campaign appearances in wake of the recent accident which resulted in the demise of former national cyclist, Jude Bentley.

In a statement posted on Facebook, the former chief of staff related that he will be suspending his campaign appearances to assist and ensure that investigations are done fairly and professionally.

“As a result of the February 8, 2020, accident that I was involved in, and the subsequent loss of the life of Mr Jude Bentley, I’m suspending, out of reverence for the dead and respect for his family, my public campaign appearances,” said Best.
This, he believes, will allow the investigation to proceed fairly, professionally and without hints of interference.

“Once again, to the family of Jude Bentley, my heart pains me for your loss, which I deeply regret and wish you can find strength in the Lord at this most difficult time. I will continue to uplift you all up in my prayer,” said Best.

Jude Bentley, 41, a businessman and former national cyclist, was killed after he was struck down on the Rupert Craig Highway in the vicinity of the Russian Embassy at approximately 05:00hrs on Saturday morning by a black land cruiser.

Reports indicated that Bentley and Best were heading east along the road. The driver reportedly tried to avoid hitting Bentley and struck a utility pole, but still managed to hit the cyclist and dragged him several feet away from the point of impact.

Traffic Chief Linden Isles had disclosed that Best was arrested at the scene and two breathalyzer tests were administered. Both tests revealed that Best was way above the legally prescribed alcohol limit.

Best was taken into custody and was subsequently released on $100,000 bail; he was in police custody at the Kitty Police Station since Saturday but was admitted to the cardiac unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Best was granted station bail on Monday under the surety of his attorney James Bond and ordered to lodge his passport.