WEEKS after the tragic death of Satesh “Toney” Persaud of Reliance, his family has said they remain determined to secure justice as investigations into the fatal accident continue.
Persaud, described by relatives as a devoted husband, loving father and hardworking provider, died following a collision involving his motorcycle and motor car PAB 8929.
His loved ones told this publication that the loss has left an irreplaceable void, particularly for his wife, Alita Atkinson, their children, including a daughter who is living with a disability and his grandchild.
According to family members, Persaud had been preparing to return to work in the Pomeroon on the day of the accident. Earlier that afternoon, a wardrobe he had purchased was delivered to his home, prompting him to leave on his motorcycle to collect one of his workmen to assist in moving the furniture.
However, at approximately 13:30hrs, tragedy struck.
Relatives claim that Persaud was crossing the road on his motorcycle when he was struck by a vehicle allegedly driven by Mitra Mohabir. They further allege that the car was travelling at a fast rate of speed and that the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision.
The impact was severe, reportedly throwing Persaud several feet from the point of impact. Public-spirited citizens rushed to assist and transported him to the Lima Regional Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
A post-mortem examination revealed that Persaud suffered extensive injuries, including fractures to his skull, a broken left shoulder, spinal cord damage, injuries to his spleen and multiple internal injuries. The cause of death was given as severe trauma sustained in the crash.
Police subsequently arrested Mohabir after a breathalyzer test allegedly recorded 48 micrograms of alcohol in his breath, exceeding the legal limit by 12 micrograms. He was later charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and released on $200,000 station bail.
Although the vehicle involved in the accident was initially impounded as part of the investigation, it has since been released into the custody of the accused. Family members have expressed concern that, despite the seriousness of the incident, no additional charges have been laid.
They have since been informed that the case file has been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice and further evaluation.
As they continue to mourn, Persaud’s relatives said they are not seeking revenge but accountability. They insist that his life matters and are calling for a thorough and transparent legal process.
“Justice for Satesh ‘Toney’ Persaud” has become more than a slogan for the grieving family. It is a call for answers, closure and a commitment to ensuring that the memory of the husband, father and grandfather lives on.
