Driver on trial for Carnival Monday fatal accident

JASON SAMAROO, 41, of Morne Diablo, Penal went on trial yesterday in the San Fernando High Court for causing death by dangerous driving on Carnival Monday 2009.

In presenting the State’s case to a jury of nine before Justice Lisa Ramsumair-Hinds, attorney Stacy Lallo-Chung said that at about 1.30 am on February 23, a car driven by Nhima Wharwood was coming out of the Penal Rock Road. Samaroo was driving in the opposite direction.

In Wharwood’s car were Anthony Nelson, Dane Ellis and Kairon Cromwell. Lalloo-Chung told the judge and jury there was a head-on collision. Nelson, who was a front-seat passenger, died and others were injured.

Yesterday, police photographer Shelly Ann Reid and Wharwood testified. Attorney Renuka Rambhajan, who is defending Samaroo, crossed-examined both witnesses. The trial continues tomorrow.