La Romaine runner, 62, fatally struck by car

A 62-year-old man was fatally struck by a car before dawn on March 23 while jogging near the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.

The police said the victim, Bhagwandeen “Deanflow” Frankie, 62, of Pond Street Extension in La Romaine, died at the scene.

Reports are the tragedy that happened around 4.30 am while he was jogging along the Gasparillo Bypass Road.

The victim, a member of the One a Week Multi-port club, was preparing for an upcoming marathon.

A silver Tiida, driven by a 24-year-old man from Reform Village, Gasparillo, was heading east and stuck him.

The driver and two other occupants claimed to have not seen Frankie but heard a noise, stopped and saw the victim.

Sgt Suliman and other officers from the Gasparillo police station responded and gathered evidence.

Distraught relatives declined to speak with media personnel.

Bafasports, an organisation that provides a comprehensive race calendar, paid tribute to him on social media.

A Facebook post at 2.15 pm on March 23 said the running community in TT lost a bright light, adding that Frankie was more than just a runner – he was an inspiration, a motivator, and a friend to many.

It said his tragic passing left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

“Bhagwandeen’s love for running was infectious. Whether he was training for a marathon or simply out on a casual run, he always had a smile on his face. His energy was boundless, his spirit unshakable, and his encouragement for others unwavering,” the post said.

“He was the kind of person who lifted those around him, urging them to push just a little further, believe in themselves a little more, and embrace the journey as much as the finish line.”

The statement added Bhagwandeen was also an advocate for a healthy lifestyle.

“He believed in taking care of the body, fuelling it with the right foods, and embracing wellness in all its forms,” the post said.

“His passion for health and fitness wasn’t just something he practiced; it was something he shared freely with others, always eager to offer advice, motivation, or just a few words of encouragement.”

The post said his legacy will live on.

“Every time we lace up our shoes and hit the road, every time we encourage a fellow runner, every time we choose a healthier path, we honour his memory,” the post said.

“His spirit will forever run beside us, pushing us forward, reminding us to smile through the pain and to always run with heart. Rest in peace, Deanflow. You will never be forgotten.”