POLICE are investigating the suspected drowning of an 89-year-old pensioner whose body was found floating in a canal near his home at Mainstay/Whyaka, Essequibo Coast.

Dead is David France of Mainstay/Whyaka.

According to police, France was last seen alive at about 12:45 hrs on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at his residence. Investigators were told that he would normally bathe in a canal located approximately 120 feet east of his home.

At about 15:30 hrs, relatives became concerned after he was not seen at home and conducted checks in the area.

France was subsequently discovered floating in the canal.

His body was removed from the water and taken to the Lima Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead by a doctor on duty.

Police said the body was examined and no marks of violence were observed.

The remains are currently at the Suddie Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Investigations are ongoing.