Panel of Medical Specialists to probe fireman's death at GPHC

The Georgetown Public Hospital has announced that it has launched an immediate investigation into the death of Fireman Voshaun Manbodh at the hospital on Saturday night.

The fireman, who was injured in the line of duty while battling the fire at the Mae’s School, was a patient at the hospital for three days before passing away. His family has raised serious concern about the level of care offered to him while at the hospital.

The 27-year-old fireman was admitted to the hospital last Wednesday with serious injuries suffered when a wall collapsed on him during a battle with the fire at the Mae’s School.

His family believes his condition worsened after he fell from the bed at the hospital. They said they were never informed by the hospital about that fall and only learned about it after his death from another patient. They also raised concern about him not being taken for a body and head scan in time and the impact those delays might have had on his treatment.

Today, the management at the Georgetown Hospital said the investigation will be led by a panel chaired by a senior clinician from outside the institution. The panel will also comprise both external and internal medical specialists to ensure a thorough and objective review.

The hospital said it remains committed to transparency and will provide updates as the investigation progresses.

In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry of Home Affairs stated that during the fire fight at the Mae’s School, Fireman Manbodh sustained severe injuries when portions of the roof and wall of the building collapsed, resulting in reported fractures to his neck resulting in impaired motor function.

The Ministry said Fireman Manbodh’s heroic efforts will not be forgotten, while indicating that through the Guyana Fire Service, it will provide full support to the late Fireman’s family.

The Home Affairs Minister visited the mother of the late Fireman on Sunday morning to offer his personal condolences. The fireman was his mother’s only child.

The Home Affairs Ministry said the loss of Fireman Manbodh serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers faced by firefighters daily, adding that their bravery and commitment to protecting lives and property are unparalleled.

Three other firemen also suffered injuries at the Mae’s fire, but they have since been discharged from the hospital.

The Home Affairs Ministry has also promised that an investigation will be conducted to identify the cause of the fireman’s death as well as the injuries sustained during the fire fight.