Residents of Barrackpore are expected to turn out in their numbers this evening for a candlelight vigil in memory of seven-year-old Angelica Saydee Jogie, whose life was tragically cut short in a jet ski incident in Tobago last week.
The vigil, organised by the Believers Assembly Church and the Satyanarayan Hindu Temple in collaboration with members of the community, will begin at 7 pm at the Cottage Road Junction. From there, participants will walk in a solemn procession to the home of Angelica’s father, Arnold Jogie, where a short interfaith service will be held.
Organisers say the event is intended not only as a tribute to the young girl, but also as a moment of unity and reflection for a grieving community. Residents have been invited to bring candles or deeyas as they honour Angelica, who has been fondly described by relatives and friends as a “dearly departed princess.” Students of San Fernando TML Primary School are also expected to attend the vigil.
Angelica died on Wednesday after being struck by a jet ski at Pigeon Point, Tobago, where she had been vacationing with her family for the Easter holidays. According to reports, the child was inside a clearly designated bathing area when a jet ski entered the restricted zone around 4.30 pm and collided with her and other relatives.
Despite the immediate response from lifeguards and members of the public, who administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the scene, Angelica later died at the Scarborough General Hospital. The operator of the jet ski reportedly fled the scene following the incident. However, an arrest was made by the police hours later.
Angelica’s death has sparked national outrage and renewed scrutiny over the safety of marine recreational activities, particularly in popular tourist areas.
In a statement issued this week, Secretary of the Safety Council of Trinidad and Tobago, Hazel Mohan-George, extended condolences to the grieving family, describing the incident as a “profound human tragedy” that has shaken public confidence.
She said the circumstances surrounding the incident point to a breakdown in critical safety systems designed to separate high-speed watercraft from bathers. “Designated swimming zones exist specifically to prevent such interactions. When these boundaries are breached, the consequences can be immediate and devastating,” the statement noted.
The Council emphasised that such incidents are preventable if proper risk management measures are enforced. Mohan-George also called for tighter regulation of jet ski operators, including mandatory training, licensing, and adherence to designated operating areas. She stressed that effective oversight is crucial to ensuring the safe coexistence of commercial activity and public recreation.
“The loss of a child in a protected bathing area must serve as a catalyst for strengthening regulatory frameworks and reaffirming a national commitment to safety,” she said.
– RADHICA DE SILVA
