Boat captain killed in Moruca River accident

Jun 13, 2026 News

(Kaieteur News) – A 55-year-old boat captain is dead and his nephew injured after a speedboat crash on Friday at the mouth of the Moruca River, in what police suspect may be an alcohol-related accident. The deceased was identified as John Henry, also known as “Johnny,” a businessman of Kumaka Waterfront, Moruca, North West District, Region One. His nephew, Stephen Henry, sustained injuries in the crash.

Boat captain killed in Moruca River accident

Dead: John Henry

According to police, John lost control of his 225-horsepower speedboat and slammed into a tree limb leaning over the river. The pair were discovered around 16:30hrs by another boat captain, who found them lying in the partially wrecked vessel and rushed them to Moruca District Hospital. John died while receiving treatment, while his nephew was treated and later transferred to Lima Hospital for further care. The two had travelled to Charity earlier that day to purchase goods for their shop.

The boat captain who discovered the wreck told police he had encountered John and his nephew shortly before they departed Charity. He said John appeared intoxicated and he asked him if he was alright. John responded with a thumbs-up before leaving with his nephew around 15:40hrs.

Sometime later, as the captain made his way toward Moruca, he spotted boats floating near the river mouth around 16:30hrs. He then noticed John’s boat at the riverbank, badly damaged, with Henry lying unconscious inside. His nephew was conscious but unable to recall what had happened, saying only that he had been knocked unconscious during the crash.

Police say they have received information indicating John was seen drinking alcoholic beverages before departing for Kumaka. Investigations are ongoing.

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accident, boat captain, John Henry, killed, Moruca River

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