Dhanram Ramdeo Ramlall, 26, was yesterday released on $1 million bail after denying a charge that he caused the death of his wife by dangerous driving along the Demerara Harbour Bridge.
Ramlall, of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, pleaded not guilty to a charge of causing the death of Gangadei Persaud, 22, by dangerous driving when he was arraigned yesterday before city magistrate Judy Latchman.
According to the prosecution, on November 8th, Ramlall allegedly drove his motor lorry GEE 4540 on the Demerara Harbour Bridge in a manner which was dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of his wife when it went over the bridge.
The prosecution said Ramlall was allegedly driving at a speed of 40 kph, which is far above the speed limit, when he suddenly applied the brakes of his Canter truck on the wet bridge and suddenly lost control and went into the Demerara River.
However, Ramlall’s attorney told the court that the vehicle slipped off the bridge because of how slippery it was due to the rain.
The attorney added that the vehicle went over and was submerged in the river and a few minutes after Ramlall emerged from the water alone because he was unable to save his wife.
Bail was requested so that Ramlall could attend his wife’s funeral and look after their nine-month-old child. Bail was set at $1 million and the accused was ordered to return to court on November 30th, when the matter would be called for statements.
