One person dies after pile-up on new Demerara River bridge

Scott Jacob Dorwart died in today’s crash on the new Demerara River Bridge.

Dorwart’s Facebook profile lists him as being from Paramaribo, Suriname.

Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh had confirmed that one person died today after a six-vehicle pile-up on the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.

One person is in critical condition and has been escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

A heavily-laden truck appeared to have experienced mechanical issues and rolled backward into oncoming traffic.

A relative of the truck driver told Stabroek News today: “The truck was climbing up with the load when he reach top of the ramp the pilot shaft cut out. Once that pilot shaft cut you’re going to lose control. The truck roll coming back. The truck was in the left lane coming down (reverse) the 2 lane have traffic so who in the left lane try to squeeze over get over and who ain’t get to squeeze over get run and come down…More than 300 feet about 400 feet the truck come. So while coming down with no control it going to build speed and you know how it stop is a bale of cement drop under the truck and is that stop it”.

This is the first traffic fatality on the bridge since its opening on October 5th. The authorities have warned about speeding on the bridge.

The Ministry of Public Works today issued the following statement:

The Ministry of Public Works wishes to issue a formal statement regarding the multi-vehicle accident that occurred today on the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.
First responders have confirmed one fatality, one person in serious condition, and two individuals who sustained minor injuries. The injured parties are currently receiving medical attention.
The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this incredibly painful time. Our thoughts and prayers are also with those injured as we hope for their swift and full recovery.
Further, the Ministry received reports of a collision involving five vehicles, including a truck and a motorcycle. Preliminary reports indicate that the accident was triggered by a mechanical failure experienced by a cement truck while it was ascending the bridge’s high span.
Immediately following the incident, emergency services—including the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Fire Service, and emergency medical personnel—were dispatched to the scene. Specialized teams are still conducting a thorough wash-down of the bridge surface to clear debris and spilled materials, ensuring the structure is safe for the resumption of traffic.
The Ministry wishes to categorically dismiss any rumors or misinformation suggesting that the truck involved was overweight. Verification of records confirms that the vehicle was weighed prior to crossing and successfully passed the axle load limit. The cause of the incident has been identified strictly as a mechanical malfunction.
The Ministry regrets any inconvenience caused to commuters and urges the public to remain patient as recovery efforts continue.