Presidential guard dies after crashing into lamp pole

Relatives of a 20-year-old Presidential Guard, who died following an accident on the Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara Public Road yesterday morning are dissatisfied with what they said was the “laid back” treatment the man received at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

Clarence Gomes

According to a release from the police, Constable 20489 Clarence Gomes, of Lot 37, First Street, Lancaster Village, Mahaica, ECD, was riding his motorcycle, CD 5490 along the public road around 6:50 am yesterday morning when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a lamp post.

Gomes was rushed to the public hospital where he died while seeking medical attention.

The man’s father Colin Gomes told Stabroek News yesterday that his son was stationed at the Office of the President and was expected to ‘knock-off’ at 6 am yesterday. He said a pump attendant in the area observed his son’s motorcycle at the side of the road while on his way to work and subsequently notified the police who in turn informed the family.

According to the man, he immediately rushed down to the hospital where he observed his son crying and complaining of pain in various parts of his body, including his stomach.

He said his son was bleeding through his mouth and ears during this time.

Around 8 am, the man’s father said the doctors at the Accident and Emergency (A&E) unit of the hospital had already prepared his son for an operation but, “could not locate any porters”, to take him to the main theatre.

According to the distraught man, his son died around 10 am while on the way to the theatre.

The man’s father stated that police officers on the ECD pursued reports that another vehicle may have “braced” his son off of the road but according to him, it was later confirmed that the man lost control of his motorcycle.

He said his son would ride to and from work each day and according to him, Clarence’s death came as a “total shock to the family”.

Clarence leaves to mourn his parents, and a younger sister. He is expected to be buried this week.