Fisherman Dies After Falling Ill at Sea in Columbus Channel

Fisherman Dies After Falling Ill at Sea in Columbus Channel

A 58-year-old fisherman from Windy Hill, Arima, died on Monday afternoon after falling ill while fishing in the waters near the Ibis Rig in the Columbus Channel.

The deceased has been identified as Mathura Dalchan. According to reports, Dalchan left the Sealots Jetty at about 3:00 p.m. in the company of another fisherman. The two men were fishing in the channel when, around 6:00 p.m., Dalchan complained of feeling unwell and experiencing nausea.

Shortly after, he reportedly collapsed backwards into the pirogue and became unresponsive. His companion attempted to revive him but was unsuccessful and subsequently contacted the Coast Guard for assistance.

A Coast Guard team, led by Leading Seaman Alfred Seaman, responded and escorted the vessel back to the Sealots Jetty. Emergency Health Services personnel were called in and made further attempts to resuscitate Dalchan; however, these efforts also proved unsuccessful.

Police officers from the Besson Street Police Station, including PC Craig and PC Ali, responded to the incident. Initial observations revealed no visible signs of trauma. Dalchan was later pronounced dead by the duty District Medical Officer.

Dalchan’s brother told authorities that the deceased had a history of lung complications stemming from tuberculosis contracted seven years ago. He also revealed that Dalchan had recently been experiencing chest pains and difficulty breathing.

The body was later removed to a funeral home, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.