The heavy rains that hit Trinidad and Tobago this week has claimed at least one life. A pensioner identified as Geraldo Greene, 77, died Friday morning when a landslide destroyed a section of his house in Santa Cruz, burying him alive.Greene’s wife, Sylvia, and two grandchildren, Akila John and Ashaya John, escaped unhurt.
Witnesses said when Sylvia heard an "angry roar" she grabbed the children and fled to a neighbour's home.
Her husband was not that fortunate as the walls of the home crashed on him as he was having breakfast in the kitchen.The government information service announced Greene's death on its news website stating that medical personnel declared the pensioner dead at 4.50 p.m. and that the body had been removed from the premises.
"Representatives from the Psychological Services Unit of the Ministry of the People and Social Development are on the scene to assist family members. Additionally, an assessment of the damage to the property is being done," the government said.
Local Government Minister Chandresh Sharma was saddened by Greene's death, which he described as "unfortunate".
He said the government is working with the San Juan/Laventille Corporation to try to relocate the family.
"I have contacted the Housing Minister (who) has taken steps to relocate the family,” Sharma told reporters. He added that government has also undertaken to meet the cost of the funeral.
Sharma said some residents would be relocated once the authorities have determined their needs. “Sometimes, we would have to move against their wishes to save them,” he said.
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