A tragic incident unfolded this morning, as two boats collided on the Cuyuni River.
The collision involved a 19-foot wooden boat equipped with a 75Hp Yamaha outboard engine, operated by 60-year-old Lloyd Obermuller, a laborer residing in Crane Housing Scheme and Eteringbang Landing. The other vessel was a 17-foot wooden boat powered by a 40Hp Yamaha outboard engine and operated by Crees Boyde, a miner whose age and address are yet to be confirmed.
According to preliminary reports, Obermuller and Boyde were known for their regular transportation services, ferrying passengers between Eteringbang Landing and San Martin Landing in Venezuela. Between 03:47hrs and 04:30hrs, Obermuller embarked on his journey from Eteringbang Landing to San Martin, carrying two unidentified passengers on board.
Simultaneously, Boyde set sail from San Martin, en route to Eteringbang Landing. As both boats traversed the river, a collision occurred, causing all occupants, including Obermuller and Boyde, to be thrown into the water.
Prompt action from public-spirited individuals ensued as they rushed to the scene. Boyde was successfully rescued from the river and promptly transported to Venezuela for immediate medical attention. Reports indicate he sustained severe injuries to his right leg and minor injuries to his hands.
A search operation was swiftly launched to locate Obermuller and his passengers. Regrettably, despite extensive efforts, they remain unaccounted for at this time. The identities and details of Obermuller’s passengers have yet to be determined.
The Eteringbang Police Station has taken possession of both boats and engines involved in the collision. Authorities have initiated a comprehensive search operation to locate the missing individuals.