Police are investigating a major explosion that occurred at the Mobil Fuel Station located at Regent and King Streets, Lacytown, Georgetown, around 19:36hrs on Sunday October 26, 2025 which claimed the life of a child and left four others injured.
Preliminary investigations revealed that earlier in the evening, a male of mixed ethnicity, believed to be Spanish-speaking, was seen at the location with two bulky black plastic garbage bags.
He reportedly attempted to dispose of the bags in a garbage bin at the station but was prevented from doing so by an attendant. The individual subsequently left the area, heading south along King Street to the western side of the fuel station.
At approximately 19:36hrs, a powerful explosion was heard on the southwestern side of the compound, near the section where bottled cooking gas is stored. The blast caused extensive damage to the building, several parked vehicles and nearby properties.
At the time of the explosion, motor car PTT 8275, a silver Toyota Premio, was in the compound with driver Jenica Hooper, 27, a teacher of Breeda Street, Werk-en-Rust; her mother, Yvonne Jonas, 71, a pensioner; her nieces, Soraya Bourne, 6, (now deceased), and Seddia McIntosh, 12,, a student; along with her nephew, Reshard Lord, 7, a pupil – all of the said address.
They were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where Soraya Bourne was pronounced dead on arrival. The other victims were treated for injuries and remain in stable condition.
The explosion also damaged four other motor vehicles and caused minor structural damage to a nearby building.
Ranks from the Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters led by senior officers processed the scene and collected several items of evidential value, including fragments of black plastic bags and adhesive tape, which have been sent for forensic analysis. CCTV footage has been obtained and is being reviewed to assist investigators.
The Commissioner of Police Mr. Clifton Hicken along with his Executive Leadership Team and the entire Guyana Police Force extend deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of young Soraya Bourne during this time of immense grief. The Force also wishes a speedy recovery to the injured victims and assures the public that every effort is being made to bring justice in this tragic matter.
Investigations are continuing.
