Toddler struck dead by bus in Bartica

A 17-month-old toddler was yesterday killed when the bus she and her parents had moments before disembarked reversed and struck her down.

Celine Wilkinson, of Second Avenue, Agatash, Bartica was killed in front of her home after the bus, which was driven by a relative, reversed without realizing that the child was standing behind it.

Stabroek News understands that the accident occurred sometime around 5 pm. The driver of the bus is currently in police custody assisting with investigations.

According to a female relative, who preferred to be unnamed, the toddler was dragged several feet before the driver was made aware that she was under the vehicle. She stated that after pulling off, the driver explained that he thought he went over a bump and it was only a few seconds later that another vehicle pulled up aside him and alerted him that child was under the vehicle.

Stabroek News was unable to establish contact with the child’s parents.