by Linda Straker
- Forensic pathologist’s investigation classified Franklyn’s death as inconclusive
- Dr Keith Mitchell has called for independent investigation
- Family and RGPF are awaiting toxicology report
The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) said that it’s awaiting the toxicology report to determine the cause of death of former Senator Neilon Franklyn, because the forensic pathologist’s investigation has classified his death as inconclusive.
In medicine, according to internet search, an inconclusive result means a test or scan did not provide a clear positive or negative answer, indicating the substance or condition being tested for was not clearly found, nor was it clearly absent. This uncertainty often means further testing, repeating the test, or collecting another sample is needed to get a definitive result and clarify a diagnosis.
In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the RGPF said it had become aware of information currently in circulation on social media alleging that the former senator died as a result of poisoning. “Being the entity tasked with investigating serious crimes, including homicide, the RGPF maintains a professional relationship with pathologists and other experts who are also directly involved in such investigations.” The statement referred to the forensic pathologist who conducted the autopsy. “According to Forensic Pathologist Dr Hubert Daisley, the examination into the cause of Mr Franklyn’s death has not been concluded since a toxicology investigation is pending. To date, there is no conclusion on the cause of death.”
The statement said, “Therefore, we continue to implore upon members of the public to ensure that they do not publish or circulate unverified information or information from unofficial sources. Such actions can cause hindrances to investigations and unnecessary alarm.”
Dr Keith Mitchell, former prime minister and former political leader of the New National Party (NNP), who represents Franklyn’s village in the Parliament as the current Member of St George North-West, called for an independent investigation into the death of the 28-year-old.
In a statement disseminated by the NNP to journalists and also posted on his Facebook page, Dr Mitchell — who during his tenure as Opposition Leader appointed Franklyn to serve as a senator in the Upper House of Parliament — said Franklyn’s tragic passing deeply saddened him. “Neilon was not only a colleague but also part of my extended family circle, and his loss is felt profoundly. The confirmation that his death resulted from the consumption of a lethal substance is both alarming and unacceptable.”
“In light of this, I call on the Government of Grenada to immediately commission a thorough and independent investigation conducted by a credible agency outside of our jurisdiction so that the circumstances of this tragedy can be fully uncovered,” said the statement. “The people of Grenada, and Neilon’s grieving family, deserve nothing less than swift and transparent justice. Those responsible for this act must be held accountable,” Mitchell’s statement concluded.
Franklyn died at the General Hospital in St George’s on Sunday, 24 August 2025, after collapsing at his home earlier that day. A private pathologist from another jurisdiction reportedly informed the family that his death was due to ingesting a lethal substance, which shut down all his organs. The family is awaiting the toxicology report on the death.
The RGPF is yet to confirm that his death is being treated as a homicide.
