Driver of killer car dies in hospital

PRIVATE HIRE (PH) driver Donaron Rodriguez, whose car crashed  into a utility pole resulting in the death of three female passengers, died last Thursday — before police could complete investigations to determine whether he was culpable in the deaths of the women. Rodriquez was transporting four women to their respective homes when he lost control of his car and slammed into a lamp-post near Dunlop Roundabout Point Fortin, on September 23. Of the five occupants, only one person — Deborah Vesprey, 28, of Cochrane Village, Guapo — walked away with minor injuries. She is now the lone survivor of the killer crash. Julie Sylvestor, 66, of Vance River Guapo and Lorna Nelson, 57, of La Brea both died on the spot. The other victim, Marlene  Johnson, 18, of La Brea died while undergoing emergency treatment at hospital.

Rodriguez, who sustained severe head injuries, died last Thursday night at San Fernando General Hospital. Eyewitnesses told police Rodriguez, 28, lost control when he attempted to overtake a car and had to swerve off the road to avoid hitting a  truck which was proceeding on the opposite lane of the road. Investigators said they did not get an opportunity to interview the driver and the only person who knew what transpired that day was the lone survivor. “We have not spoken to her as yet. She just came out of the hospital, but if she cannot remember then we will never know what really happened,” an officer told Newsday. The source said most likely an inquest will be held to officially ascertain the circumstances leading up to the fatal accident. The case would then be closed. Sgt Woods of Point Fortin police is heading investigations.