Queenstown Toddler’s Drowning Sparks Calls for Greater Child Safety

By Mark DaCosta- In a heart-wrenching incident that has left the Queenstown Village community in mourning, a 21-month-old boy named Devon Walker drowned in a trench on Monday, November 10, at around 5:30 pm. The young child had wandered away unnoticed from his home, and despite rapid attempts to save him, he was tragically pronounced dead shortly after being retrieved from the water.

Eyewitness accounts detail a grim scenario unfolding as the child’s mother was reportedly asleep when the incident occurred. It was only when Devon’s older brother stumbled upon him in the trench that alarm bells rang. The brother’s efforts to rescue him fell short, prompting a desperate dash to alert their mother for assistance. By the time Devon was pulled from the trench, attempts to revive him proved futile. The family rushed him to Lima Hospital, but he was sadly confirmed dead upon arrival. The police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

Devon’s untimely death shines a light on the pressing need for community awareness and safety measures in our nation. Such incidents shake the very foundations of our communities, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by young children, especially in densely populated areas where access to water bodies poses significant risks. As the community grapples with grief, it is paramount that authorities prioritise measures to safeguard our vulnerable youth.

Queenstown Village, located along the Essequibo Coast, holds a historical significance that stretches back to its founding on September 25, 1841. Established post-emancipation, the village emerged as a symbol of self-determination, with former enslaved Africans pooling their resources to acquire land. Today, Queenstown is reputed to be one of the oldest and largest villages in our country, covering an area of approximately one square mile.

The village, which took its name in honour of Queen Victoria, comprises sections formerly known as Mocha, Westfield, and Dageraad. This rich heritage is not only reflected in its historical narratives but also in its multicultural demographics. Once primarily inhabited by descendants of African slaves, the community now embraces a diverse mix of ethnicities, including East Indian communities, which enriches its cultural tapestry.

Noteworthy landmarks, such as St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, add depth to Queenstown’s identity, representing resilience against the backdrop of history. Constructed in the early 1840s, this church stands as a testament to the village’s storied past, originally serving as a coffee logie before evolving into a place of worship. Locals often fondly recall the mosque known as the oldest extant mosque in Guyana, showcasing the interfaith harmony present in the area.

Moreover, the village was historically recognised for its agricultural prowess, especially during World War II when it was affectionately dubbed the “breadbasket of the Essequibo Coast.” Today, while modern amenities such as paved roads and health centres have emerged, the spectre of tragedy looms large when adequate safeguards for children are not in place.

As residents reflect on the painful loss of a child, there is a growing consensus that immediate action is required to establish safer environments for the little ones. The community’s sorrow over Devon’s drowning resonates with a deeper concern about ongoing neglect in many areas, particularly from the ruling party, which has been accused of failing to implement vital community services effectively.