Maple Leaf School Confirms Students Aboard Vessel Involved in Tragic Chaguaramas Boat Collision Survived
Maple Leaf International School has confirmed that several of its students were aboard one of the vessels involved in Sunday's serious boating collision off Chaguaramas, which left five people missing and several others injured.
In a letter dated November 10, 2026, addressed to parents, guardians and students, Principal R. Rozario confirmed that all students from the school who were aboard the vessel had returned safely to shore.
The letter, which has been circulated on social media and reviewed by TG News, offers an important account of how the tragedy has affected members of the school community.
While expressing gratitude for the students' safety, the principal acknowledged the devastating circumstances surrounding the accident and the emotional impact it could have on those involved.
School Acknowledges Emotional Impact
According to the letter, the school recognises that even individuals who escaped physical injury may experience emotional distress following such a traumatic event.
The principal encouraged members of the school community to be kind, supportive and understanding towards everyone affected, whether directly or indirectly.
The school also highlighted the importance of coming together during difficult times, particularly as families continue to cope with uncertainty surrounding their missing loved ones.
Its message extended beyond the students who were aboard the vessel to include other families affected by the tragedy.
Warning Over Social Media Content
One of the central concerns raised in the letter was the circulation of videos, photographs and commentary relating to the accident.
Principal Rozario urged parents to speak with their children about the incident in ways appropriate to their ages and levels of understanding.
For older students, the school specifically highlighted the need for awareness about material being viewed, posted and reposted on social media.
The principal cautioned that such content could cause further distress in an already painful situation.
The warning comes as the collision continues to attract widespread public attention, with discussions about maritime safety and the circumstances surrounding the accident taking place across social media platforms.
The school did not identify the students who were aboard the vessel or provide details about their individual experiences during the incident.
Five People Reported Missing
The collision occurred on Sunday evening, November 8, in waters off Chaguaramas, involving two vessels identified in police reports as the Bambaleo and Belbagai.
The impact reportedly caused the Belbagai to sink, leaving passengers in the water and triggering an emergency rescue response.
Five people were reported missing following the collision, while several others sustained injuries.
Search operations have involved the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, police personnel, specialist teams and volunteers from Hunters Search and Rescue.
The incident has also renewed public discussion about maritime safety, including the operation of recreational vessels, passenger protection and enforcement of boating regulations.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collision remain ongoing.
School Offers Support to Families
In closing, Principal Rozario expressed sympathy for the families of those missing and wished the injured a full and speedy recovery.
The school also invited parents and members of its community to reach out if they required comfort or assistance.
The letter reflects the wider emotional impact of the tragedy, particularly on young people who may have witnessed or experienced frightening circumstances.
As the investigation continues and families await further answers, the school's message places emphasis on compassion, sensitivity and support for everyone affected.
The confirmation that its students returned safely provides reassurance to the Maple Leaf community, even as the broader tragedy continues to weigh heavily on families across Trinidad and Tobago.