Trinidad & Tobago Tragedy: Water Worker Loses Life in Trench Accident

In a heart-wrenching incident that unfolded in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, the life of Kern Etienne, a 39-year-old father of two, was tragically cut short when he became trapped and buried alive inside a trench not far from his own home. This devastating accident occurred near the San Fernando Licensing Authority, at Cipero Road, in close proximity to the Cross Crossing Overpass.

Kern Etienne, an employee of the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA), was part of an emergency repair crew assigned to the critical task of connecting a sewer line from the Licensing Office to a mainline at Cipero Road, San Fernando. Little did anyone know that these routine duties would lead to such a tragic outcome.

According to his twin brother, Kerdelle, who tearfully recounted the horrifying incident, one of Kern's co-workers had issued a chilling warning about the unstable mud within the trench. Tragically, Kern's attempts to exit the trench were in vain, as the mound of earth rapidly collapsed on top of him.

Quick-thinking colleagues immediately sprang into action, working feverishly to free him from the treacherous soil. The frantic rescue efforts were nothing short of heroic. However, when Kern was finally unearthed from the trench, the extent of his injuries was nothing short of horrifying: he was bleeding from his eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. Despite the valiant attempts to save him, Kern's injuries proved fatal.

Speaking on behalf of the grieving family, Kerdelle Etienne expressed deep concerns regarding the safety measures enforced during the operation. It was their understanding that the proper precautions and safeguards had not been adequately implemented, leading to this grievous tragedy.

Kern Etienne's mother, Joyce Grant-Roberts, recounted the heart-wrenching moment when she received the heart-wrenching call about her son's workplace accident. Despite rushing to the hospital with her son and daughter, the medical staff's efforts to save Kern's life, tragically, were in vain.

The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) has since issued an official statement confirming the details of the incident. WASA extended their profound condolences to Kern Etienne's grieving family, friends, and colleagues, vowing to provide unwavering support during this exceedingly difficult time.

Additionally, WASA has assured that they will launch a thorough investigation, collaborating with the relevant agencies to determine the circumstances that led to this gut-wrenching accident.

Kern Etienne, a loving husband and father of two, lost his life while in the line of duty, shedding light on the indispensable importance of upholding stringent safety protocols in all work environments.