Double tragedy rocks St Cuthbert’s mission as two teenagers die hours apart

The village of St Cuthbert’s Mission was plunged into mourning on Sunday after two teenagers died in separate incidents just hours apart, sending shockwaves through the close-knit Indigenous community.

Residents awoke at around 5:00 hrs to news that 18-year-old Raj Henry had died by suicide. The discovery was made at his family’s home by relatives, including cousins. Villagers said there was a social gathering during the night.

Hours later, grief deepened when word reached the community that 19-year-old Mark Ferreira had died by drowning at a gold mining backdam in the Cuyuni area in Region Seven.

The deaths of the two young men, both on the cusp of adulthood, have left families, friends and residents struggling to come to terms with the loss.

Toshao Alvoro Simon, in a message to the village, described the day as one of the most difficult he has faced as a community leader.

“As night falls on one of the saddest days in our community, let us pray for all those persons affected by these passing. Let’s remember their parents, siblings and other family members who is going to bed with this heartbreak that cannot be explained,” he said.

He reflected on the unfulfilled promise of the two young men.

“Mark and Raj, two young guys about to start their adulthood, I’m sure had great plans for their future. We will never see them accomplish those dreams. But we will remember them for as long as we are alive.”

The Toshao urged residents to honour the memory of the teenagers by observing a period of quiet reflection.

“I ask the entire community to show respect by not playing loud music for the rest of the week – this means no clubbing,” he said, adding that the measure would be enforced with support from police in the community.

“Mark and Raj, we will miss you both a lot, but we will cherish every moment we spent with you both,” he added.

Authorities are expected to conduct investigations into both incidents.

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available through local health services and trusted community members.