by Linda Straker
- Child left unsupervised by parent was later found unresponsive
- According to Facebook, septic tank has been left uncovered for months
- Autopsy will be conducted to determine cause of death
Police said that a thorough and impartial investigation will be conducted to determine the circumstances that led to the unfortunate death of a 4-year-old who was found unresponsive in a septic tank.
On Wednesday, 20 December 2023, the RGPF received reports of an incident in the town of Grenville, St Andrew, which resulted in the death of Sharmon Gibbs of Mt Carmel, St Andrew.
“Preliminary information revealed that the child was left unsupervised by a parent and upon his return, the child was missing. An extensive search was conducted in the surrounding areas. The child was later found unresponsive, floating in a septic tank, which had an opening at the top. He was immediately taken to the Princess Alice Hospital,” said a news release from the Community Relations Department of the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF).
The septic tank, according to pictures posted on Facebook, is located within proximity to the police station in St Andrew and has been left uncovered for months.
“Efforts to revive him were futile and he was subsequently pronounced dead. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation and our officers are working diligently to gather all relevant information,” said the release. “An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.”
The release quoted the Commissioner and members of the RGPF as expressing condolences to the family and loved ones of young Gibbs.
“We take this opportunity also to urge each of you to be extra vigilant and cautious, especially during this festive time of year,” the release said.
We, the people take this time to urge you, our law enforcement, to put standards in place for public safety, and actively enforce them. This is not the only case of a dangerous, open trench on the island, yet it never seems to be a problem until something catastrophic happens. We NEED to do BETTER.
May Sharmon Gibbs’ soul rest in perfect, innocent peace 🙁