-President Ali assures devastated family of government’s full support
PHAGWAH celebrations were tragically overshadowed by grief after two young siblings, Jadon De Courte, 10, and eight-year-old Tianna De Courte, drowned on Tuesday.
The siblings were found motionless in a trench along the Melanie Damishana/Enterprise Access Road, East Coast Demerara, between 08:00hrs and 11:05hrs.
Preliminary investigations revealed that around 08:00hrs, the children left their home with their mother and were in the area when they reportedly wandered away. At approximately 11:05hrs, information was received that the children had been found motionless in a trench at Melanie/Enterprise. The mother was alerted and subsequently identified them.
Emergency Medical Technicians responded to the scene and pronounced both children dead.
No marks of violence were observed on their bodies and police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and further information will be provided as the case progresses.
President Dr Irfaan Ali, in a Facebook statement, expressed condolences to the family and reassured them of the government’s support. “Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, and Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, today visited the home of Tiana and Jaden DeCourte, who tragically lost their lives by drowning earlier this morning at Enterprise, East Coast Demerara. They conveyed the Government’s deepest sympathies and assured the grieving family of full support during this extremely difficult time.”
President Ali added: “I also wish to personally extend condolences to the parents and other loved ones of Tiana and Jaden. No words can truly ease the pain of such a devastating loss, but please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We stand with you and will ensure that every possible support is provided as you navigate this period of profound grief.”
Meanwhile, Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, also shared her condolences on Facebook, stating: “My heart goes out to the parents of Jadon and Tianna De Courte during this time of unimaginable grief. There are truly no words that can reach the depth of the pain they are feeling today. To lose two children, especially on a day meant for joy and togetherness, is a tragedy that has left us all shaken.”
“To the parents, the family, and the Paradise Primary School community: please know that you are not walking through this darkness alone. Our hearts and our prayers are with you. May these two precious souls rest in eternal peace,” Minister Parag said.
