Biker dies after Anna Catherina collision

- eyewitness says poor response by bystanders, cops may have led to death

A fatal accident on the Anna Catherina Public Road sent a young biker to an early grave on Sunday, but an eyewitness is convinced that a little less inaction from both bystanders and police could have saved the man’s life.

Royshan Cook, 21, of Crane Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara, was struck down at around 8.40 pm as he made his way home from work in Parika.

Police said investigations have so far revealed that Cook was riding a motorcycle when he collided with two motor vehicles. He sustained injuries about his body and was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival, police added.

Royshan Cook
Royshan Cook

An eyewitness yesterday told Stabroek News that the Cook was hit by two vehicles that appeared to be racing. The drivers were reported to be in custody at the Leonora Police Station. The witness said that Cook was hit first by a fast-moving car and then shortly after run over by the other car.

Another eyewitness, who also asked not to be named, told Stabroek News that he arrived on the scene shortly after the accident occurred and found that persons were simply standing around Cook, taking photographs. Upon closer inspection, he realised that Cook was still breathing.

“I asked why no one took him to the hospital ’cause it’s just like five minutes away. Everyone gave excuses and said how they don’t want to trouble the guy and how he’s already dead,” the man said.

He explained that one of the damaged vehicles was at the scene when he arrived. However, neither of the involved drivers were present.

He went on to say that he offered his own vehicle to take Cook to the hospital and tried to contact emergency services. However, none could be reached when he called. He noted that using his vehicle was not the most ideal arrangement but he strongly believed that something needed to be done.

The man also recounted that a police van passed as they began to head to the hospital. However, instead of rendering assistance to the injured Cook, the ranks took up the duty of “sorting out traffic.” This, the eyewitness said, may have been a fatal flaw. “There wasn’t much traffic though, so I believed that the main focus should’ve been taking care of the guy. I suggested that they help the guy but the officers weren’t listening,” he said. He continued, “I said you guys should just get this man to the hospital; he’s still breathing.” The man maintained that Cook was alive through it all but the police refused to respond.

He eventually left the scene, leaving Cook in the police’s “care” after the officers became increasingly annoyed at his advice. He said he was unsurprised upon learning that Cook eventually died.

Cook was described as an “easy-going, quiet, and cool” person. He is survived by his mother, two sisters and his girlfriend.