Akash Samaroo
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has expressed condolences following the tragic death of 19-year-old sanitation worker Deshawn Joseph, who died in a garbage truck accident in Kelly Village, Caroni, on Tuesday night.
In a statement issued this morning, Persad-Bissessar said she was saddened by the young man’s death and extended sympathy to his grieving relatives and loved ones.
“I wish to express my sincere condolences to the loved ones of 19-year-old Deshawn Joseph, who tragically lost his life in a freak accident on Tuesday night,” the Prime Minister said.
Police said Joseph, of Springvale, Claxton Bay, exited the garbage truck around 9.15 pm at Ragoonath Street in Kelly Village and was collecting garbage.
He was walking behind the vehicle when the driver, who was reversing, struck him. Joseph fell and the truck rolled over him, killing him at the scene.
The Prime Minister reflected on the painful circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death, particularly the family he leaves behind.
“He leaves behind a grieving family, including his girlfriend, who is four months pregnant with their child,” Persad-Bissessar said.
She described the tragedy as especially heartbreaking given that Joseph had been working to support his loved ones.
“It is truly heartbreaking that a young man went out to earn an honest living to care for his family and never returned home,” she said.
The incident sparked an outpouring of sympathy on social media, with many expressing concern over the dangers faced by sanitation workers and offering condolences to Joseph’s family.
Persad-Bissessar ended her message with prayers for comfort and strength for those mourning the loss.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may God grant strength, comfort and healing to his loved ones during this painful time of grief,” she said.
Investigations into the incident are continuing.
