GEORGETOWN, Guyana - THE Guyanese nation is mourning yet another loss of life by the fire that took place at the Mahdia Secondary School’s female dormitory on Sunday (May 21).
Dead is 14-year-old Sherana Daniels of Micobie Village in Region Eight, who, shortly before 10:00 a.m.yesterday (May 30), succumbed to injuries to her respiratory system due carbon monoxide poisoning and a heart attack while receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.
Her death has taken to 20, the number of children who perished in the fire.
In a press statement yesterday, the Ministry of Health said: Ms. Daniels was the first girl who was a victim in the Mahdia fire tragedy that was air-dashed to Georgetown early Monday morning (May 22nd). She was listed as critical before being air-ambulanced to Georgetown Hospital and remained on the critical list until her passing.”
The statement also read: “The MOH would like to thank the doctors, nurses and other staff members who worked assiduously with the hope that a miracle would be possible.”
On hearing of her passing, President Irfaan Ali, on his Facebook page, expressed heartfelt condolences to the parents, relatives and students of Mahdia Secondary School.
“Sherana is the 20th victim of this tragedy. We pray that her loved ones are granted strength and courage during this difficult period. My Government and all of Guyana continue to keep you in our prayers. Rest in peace and rise in glory Sherana!”
Meanwhile, the 13-year-old girl, who was transferred to the Northwell Burn Center at the University Hospital in Staten Island, New York, is said to be in stable condition and improving.
The Ministry of Health informed that she underwent her first of multiple surgeries on Monday afternoon (May 29), noting: “She is doing well and we expect a positive outcome. Her mom is with her and her dad will be flown into NY this week to also be with them.”
On Monday (May 29), a 15-year-old female student, who allegedly lit the fire that claimed the lives of 19 children, including a five-year-old boy, was arraigned on 19 counts of Murder.
The teen had appeared virtually before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court and was remanded to the Juvenile Holding Centre in Georgetown until Tuesday, July 4, 2023.
