The Guyana Police Force reported this evening that post mortem examinations were conducted yesterday on the remains of the five Guyana Defence Force Servicemen who lost their lives last Wednesday when their helicopter crashed during a trip from Olive Creek to Arau in Region Seven.

Of the five who died, three of them died from severe burns, according to post-mortem examination report.

The report stated that Retired Brigadier Gary Beaton was so badly burnt that he had to be identified by his dentures. His brother and a brother in law identified him.

The Commanding Pilot of the helicopter, Lt. Colonel Michael Charles was also burnt beyond recognition and was identified by a name tag that remained on part of his uniform.

The report also stated that Lt. Colonel Sean Welcome was badly burned and he was identified by two of his siblings.

The other two victims, Colonel Michael Shahoud and Staff Sgt. Jason Khan both died from multiple injuries to their bodies.

News Source understands that it is suspected that Colonel Shahoud jumped from the helicopter as it plummeted through trees to the ground. His body had to be removed from a tree, where it had been stuck.

Two servicemen, co-pilot Lt. Andio Crawford and Corporal Dwayne Jackson survived the crash. They were both admitted to the hospital after they were brought out from the crash area.

News Source understands that the helicopter broke into 3 pieces and a section of it burst into flames as it crashed through the tall large trees in the jungle.

Staff Sgt. Jason Khan, who has since been promoted posthumously to Warrant Officer Class Two, was reportedly pulled from the wreckage by Corporal Jackson, but died a few hours later as they waited for help. In addition to his multiple injuries, he was also badly burnt.

A cause of the crash is still to be determined as the incident is under investigation.

The funeral for Lt. Colonel Michael Charles will take place on Wednesday, while the others will be laid to rest on Friday.

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