One dead after Aruka River collision, another critical

The Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) says it is investigating a fatal accident that occurred in the Aruka River, Region One, on Friday, August 8, 2025.

The incident claimed the life of 20-year-old Ken Wells, a farmer from Barima River. His sister, Loraine Wells, remains hospitalized in critical condition, a MARAD release said.

Preliminary reports indicate that a 150-horsepower wooden boat, captained by 20-year-old Tirisa Allen, collided with a 15-horsepower balahoo, which was transporting seven passengers and captained by Andrea Albert.

It was further reported that at approximately 3 pm., Allen was about five minutes steaming time from the Kumaka Waterfront, en-route to Imbotero, when  heavy rainfall resulted in restricted visibility. The balahoo was reportedly spotted about 15 metres away but collision avoidance manoeuvres were unsuccessful and the vessels collided.

Allen reportedly rendered assistance, and all occupants were retrieved from the water, the release said.

They were subsequently taken to the Mabaruma hospital at around 15:27 hrs, where Ken Wells was pronounced dead on arrival.

Further details are pending and MARAD urges all boat operators to strictly observe the collision regulations when traveling on the water.