Six months after 18-year-old Jainarine Rampersaud died from injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash on the Corentyne, his mother is still waiting for justice-and answers. The October 27, 2024 incident saw Rampersaud and his 15-year-old pillion rider, Stephon Verrapen, allegedly struck by a car along the Corentyne Highway. The driver claimed the teens hit the back of his car and fled, prompting a chase that ended with the fatal crash.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing the impact and finding the teens unconscious near their motorcycle. The driver, reportedly armed with a cutlass, told villagers at the scene he had been driving when the motorcycle hit his car. Both teens were hospitalized, but Rampersaud succumbed to his injuries 12 days later.

Despite the gravity of the incident, the driver was initially arrested and released on station bail. He was re-arrested after Rampersaud’s death, but again released after 72 hours. Since then, the case has moved slowly, with the file reportedly sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) but no advice returned.

Rampersaud’s mother, Danmatie Rampersaud, has made repeated visits to the DPP’s office, frustrated by the lack of progress while other fatal accident cases have moved forward. She also questioned inconsistencies in the police account, noting that while a breathalyser test reportedly showed no alcohol, video evidence from the scene included the driver admitting to drinking two beers.

Regional Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus confirmed that the investigation remains active. Meanwhile, Rampersaud’s family continues to seek clarity and accountability, calling for answers as to why no charges have been laid against the driver six months after the fatal crash.