Tragic Crash on Bustamante Highway Crash Claims Two Lives. Two students are dead, and several others are injured after a motor vehicle collision on the Bustamante Highway in Clarendon Monday morning. The tragic crash occurred along Foga Road, involving a Toyota Probox taxi, a small truck, and a Subaru.
According to reports, the Subaru attempted to evade a Transport Authority team and collided with the rear of a truck. The truck overturned and rolled into the path of the Toyota Probox.
As a result, seven persons, including four students, were reportedly injured. Hospital authorities pronounced two of the injured students dead and admitted the other two.
The authorities have since identified the deceased as 12-year-old Richard Tulloch, a student of Turner’s district, Chapelton, Clarendon. Also dead is 16-year-old Jody-Ann Lodge, a student of News Bowens district, Clarendon. Both attended Lennon High School.
Ministry of Education Responds to Tragic Crash on Bustamante Highway Crash Claims Two Lives
In a somber statement, the Ministry of Education expressed its sadness over the tragic motor vehicle accident in Clarendon, where two students lost their lives.
According to the statement, one of the surviving students is in critical condition. The Ministry said the staff hopes for their full recovery. Also, the Ministry pledged to give unwavering support to the families as they endure this challenging time.
In the meantime, the Ministry said it had promptly activated its trauma and grief counseling teams to give immediate support to all institutions’ affected families, students, and staff.
“Our hearts and prayers are with their families, friends, and the Lennon High School community during this time of unimaginable grief,” it said.
Ministry of Education.
The education ministry strongly urges parents and guardians to make sure their children use reputable and safe transportation services in light of this tragic crash It also encouraged transportation providers to adhere to all safety standards and regulations, like regular vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices, to prevent such devastating occurrences.
Also, the Ministry strongly discouraged sharing sensitive images and videos of the scene, emphasizing the need for respect and sensitivity towards the students and their families during this difficult time.
Meanwhile, the police denied claims that the officers had initiated a high-speed chase with the Subaru causing the tragic crash. Speaking on Radio Jamaica’s Beyond the Headlines, ACP Gary McKenzie set the record straight.