
GUYANA - The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security continues to support the family of 6-year-old Soraya Bourne,...

who tragically lost her life following the explosion at the Mobil Gas Station. This morning, Director of the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) Ms. Levine Gouveia and Manager of the Difficult Circumstances Unit (DCU) Ms. Jashudra Seeram-Lackhan visited the family to offer continued assistance. Through DCU, the Ministry will cover funeral and wake expenses, while CPA will conduct daily hospital visits to monitor the children’s progress. Counseling and support will also be provided to all affected, especially the two hospitalised children for as long as needed.
A powerful explosion ripped through the Mobil Gas Station at Regent and King Streets on Sunday night, killing a six-year-old girl and injuring several others in a scene witnesses described as “pure chaos.” The deafening blast, which echoed across the capital around 7:30 p.m., shattered windows of nearby buildings, damaged vehicles, and sent debris raining down over the area. Crime scene ranks were seen using police sniffer dogs to help comb the area for clues. Speaking with the press at the scene, Minister of Home Affairs, Oneige Waldron said, “Its an explosion so of course immediately you think of all the possibilities or things that can cause an explosion”.

The Guyana Police Force wishes to provide an update on the investigation into the tragic explosion that occurred on Sunday. Since the issuance of the earlier statement, investigators have made significant progress. Three individuals, including a male Venezuelan national, have been taken into custody and are assisting with the investigation.
Information obtained from these arrests has provided key leads to investigators. The principal suspect, who remains at large, is being actively sought as the investigation continues.
A Wanted Bulletin has been issued for the suspect, who is believed to be of Spanish-speaking nationality. The Guyana Police Force urges anyone who may have seen or interacted with this individual or who may have information on his whereabouts to contact the nearest police station or call 911 immediately.
Investigators continue to assess the scene of the explosion. Damage was observed to the Mobil minimart, storage bond, and four fuel pumps, as well as to several nearby buildings – including the KFC outlet, adjoining commercial establishments and portions of the High Court – consistent with shockwave impact from the blast. Experts from the Forensic Science Laboratory have collected samples, including plastic and metal fragments which are being analysed to determine their origin and evidential value. The Guyana Police Force remains resolute and diligent in advancing this investigation. Every effort is being made to bring those responsible to justice and to safeguard the lives and property of all citizens. (inewsguyana/kaieteurnews)

