The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

GRAND Bahama suffered its second traffic fatality within 24 hours when a 64-year-old man was ejected from his vehicle when it overturned in bushes on Queens Highway.

The victim - who identity is being withheld by police - is a resident of Bootle Bay, Grand Bahama.

The accident happened around 5pm in the area of Pelican Lakes. According to reports, the victim lost control of his 2001 gold Buick Century, which overturned and crashed into the bushes. ASP Kenwood Taylor, officer in charge of the Traffic Division, said: “He was in critical condition and EMS was contacted. He succumbed at 7pm later that evening.”

On Wednesday, Fletcher Minnis, 53, died after a car struck him while he was walking on Queens Highway in Jones Town, Eight Mile Rock. ASP Taylor said the driver of the 2000 Infinity is co-operating with police in their investigations into that accident.

“I want to use this opportunity to sensitise members of the public to drive within the speed limit, to pay attention and to be aware of other road users on the street,” he said, warning that motorists should not use their smart phones or cellular phones while operating a vehicle.

ASP Taylor is also appealing to members of the public who have information concerning last year’s hit and run fatalities to come forward.

On December 16, 45-year-old Angelo Thurston was walking when he was struck at the intersection of Pioneer’s Way and Columbus Drive around 7pm. A white Fort Escort vehicle, licence plate unknown, failed to stop at the scene. Three days later Tavan Cox, a pedestrian, was struck and killed on Pioneers Way. The incident occurred around 9.28pm near Jasmin Garden Apartments. A dark coloured Nissan vehicle, licence plate number unknown, was travelling west and failed to stop at the scene.

ASP Taylor said that both matters are still outstanding. “They are still open and actively being investigated, and we would like to bring these matters to closure. Any information would be treated in the strictest confidence,” he added.