Venezuelan National Charged with Causing Death of Pedestrian at Buxton

September 30 2025

A charge of causing death by dangerous driving has been laid against 24-year-old Venezuelan, Jeickson Tapia, following the death of 51-year-old Rochelle Bacchus.

Tapia, of Non Pareil, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Courts.

He pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison until October 30, when the case will be called again pending the completion of investigations.

The fatal accident occurred around 11:20 a.m. on September 17 on the Buxton Public Road.

Police said Tapia was riding motorcycle CP 7698 westward at a fast rate when traffic came to a halt to allow a car to turn onto Buxton Access Road.

In attempting to avoid colliding with the turning vehicle, Tapia swerved and struck Bacchus, who was standing on the pedestrian crossing.

Both Bacchus and Tapia were picked up by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Enmore Regional Hospital before being transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Bacchus was admitted in critical condition, while Tapia was placed in the male surgical ward. Bacchus later succumbed to her injuries the following day.

According to police, statements and measurements were not initially taken at the scene, and no breathalyzer test was administered.

The motorcycle has since been lodged for inspection, and the area canvassed for CCTV footage.

Tapia was discharged from hospital, arrested, and placed into custody at the Vigilance Police Station before being brought before the court.