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Family of man killed in EBD road accident rejects $3M offer by accused
(Kaieteur News) – Struck by the sudden loss of Matthew Vanveen, his family is now demanding justice and accountability for the East Bank Demerara collision that claimed his life.
The incident, which occurred on April 18, 2026 at Providence, East Bank Demerara, claimed the life of Vanveen, a 52-year-old labourer who was described by his wife as a “blessed” provider and the sole pillar of their home.
Deceased: Matthew Vanveen
The suspect, identified as Maurice Menezes of Lot 6 Public Road Coverden, EBD was reportedly driving a white Ford Raptor at the time of the crash. Menezes recently appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court, where he was charged with causing death by dangerous driving and placed on G$300,000 bail.
He is scheduled to return to court on June 20.
Vanveen was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for treatment. His family told Kaieteur News that they wished the staff at the hospital acted with greater alacrity.
Accused: Maurice Menezes
Notwithstanding, Vanveen’s widow, Angela Caesar has described the family’s situation as traumatic and noted in the aftermath of the crash, the family was approached with an offer of G$3 million from the driver to cover immediate expenses.
While the widow noted the huge cost associated with her reputed husband’s death, she emphasized that that financial settlement could not truly provide for a family that has lost its primary breadwinner nor properly cover funeral costs.
Caesar said pointedly that when she stated this, Menezes reportedly stated dismissively that he doesn’t have a “cent more to give”. Before the accident, Vanveen worked as a contractor and labourer, often earning G$20,000 daily to ensure his family was cared for. The distraught woman said that her husband even encouraged her to leave her ten-year career at the Princess Hotel so he could take on the full responsibility of supporting the household.
Further, Vanveen’s death has left a devastating mark on the couple’s three children, aged 14, 12, and 6. The youngest daughter, who is currently dealing with serious health challenges including a tumour, reportedly calls out for her father constantly, asking “Where is daddy?” as she struggles to understand his absence.
As the community of Castello Housing Scheme and the wider society mourns alongside them, the family remains focused on the upcoming June court date. They are seeking more than just a settlement; they are seeking a measure of justice that reflects the value of the life taken and the immense struggle they now face to survive without him.
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