British national’s death triggers ATV probe

Cascade, St Mary:

Investigations are continuing into the circumstances that led to a fatal all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accident in Cascade, St Mary, a few weeks ago, which claimed the life of a male British tourist and left his wife hospitalised.

The St Mary police and related agencies are coordinating a thorough inquiry to determine how the accident occurred, what factors contributed, and what steps will be taken to prevent a recurrence.

According to an official report from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), on August 21, the now deceased Anthony Hamilton visited the island with his family and was staying at a hotel in Negril, Westmoreland.

Seven days later, on August 28, the family visited an attraction in Cascade where they booked and participated in an ATV activity. While operating the ATV with his wife, 61-year-old British national Sandra Hamilton, who was the pillion passenger, he reportedly lost control of the vehicle which went over a precipice.

They were both assisted to the St Ann’s Bay Regional Hospital in St Ann where Mr Hamilton would later succumb to his injuries. Mrs Hamilton was admitted and was treated for her injuries. She has since been released and is back in the United Kingdom.

However, at the heart of the investigation is a central question: should an ATV have been on the public road in the first place? Jamaica’s policy on ATVs states clearly that ATVs are prohibited from use on public roads. A 2014 Ministry Paper explicitly allowed importation for private property use only, and authorities have consistently warned that any use on public roads is illegal, subjecting the vehicles to seizure.

Additionally, Jamaica’s traffic regulations do not designate ATVs as street-legal vehicles. The Road Traffic Regulations 2022 require vehicles on public roads to meet established safety and operating standards; ATVs have not met these requirements for street use.

Of note also is that the police have issued strict warnings about ATVs participating in public events, including carnival parades and other road activities. When encountered on public roads, ATVs are subject to seizure and penalties under traffic laws.

FULL REPORT IN DUE COURSE

Superintendent in charge of the St Mary Police Division, Anthony Wallace, when asked about possible cease-and-desist actions aimed at preventing unsafe ATV practices, indicated that an active investigation is in progress and that officials do not wish to prejudice the case.

Wallace told The Gleaner via a text message on Friday that a full report would be issued in due course following the investigation, adding that the JCF extended its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

Meanwhile, some government regulatory bodies (state-run agencies) have been reticent about confirming whether cease-and-desist orders have been issued or what steps have been taken to ensure compliance.

Chief among those are the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo), which has indicated that it will issue a full statement soon, reinforcing the expectation of closer scrutiny and potential regulatory actions.

When contacted, both Regional Manager Kenya Keddo-Laing and Director of Visitor Safety Daryl Whyte-Wong, directed The Gleaner to Marlene Stephenson Dalley, coordinator of corporate communications and community awareness at TPDCo.

Stephenson Dalley, however, advised that TPDCo Executive Director Wade Mars was expected to make a statement shortly on the matter, answering all relevant questions.

Meanwhile, the police and investigative agencies are expected to continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review ATV operator licensing, tour itineraries, and safety protocols connected to Cascade and surrounding areas.

Sources added that regulators and industry stakeholders will also be examining the adequacy of current laws, licensing requirements, and enforcement mechanisms to deter illegal ATV operation on public roads and to protect visitors and local residents alike.

Licensed tour operators and tourism authorities are also urged to work together to reinforce safe practices, verify operator credentials, and ensure clear communication to visitors about the laws governing ATV use in Jamaica.

“All residents and visitors should recognise that ATVs are not permitted on public roads in Jamaica. For those seeking off-road adventure, engage only with licensed operators and use designated trails or private-property experiences where safety measures are in place,” one key source shared with The Gleaner.

editorial@gleanerjm.com