Road safety plea as Callix Xavier mourns death of 4-year-old in Vieux Fort
VIEUX FORT, St Lucia — Callix “Kakal” Xavier mourns the death of a four-year-old boy killed in a tragic three-vehicle collision along the Vieux Fort–Laborie Highway on Saturday, October 25. The United Workers Party (UWP) candidate for Vieux Fort North expressed sorrow over the loss of young Rikki Samuel, a kindergarten student of the Banse La Grace Combined School, and extended condolences to the grieving family.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force confirmed that the mid-morning Vieux Fort crash, which occurred near Hewanorra International Airport and the Marine Base area known as Il Pirata, left eleven people injured in addition to the death of the young child. Early reports suggest the boy was traveling with his father, a taxi driver, when the accident occurred.
In an official statement released Sunday, Xavier said the incident has left the southern community in mourning.
“I am saddened by the tragic news of the untimely death of four-year-old kindergarten student, Rikki Samuel of the Banse La Grace Combined School, who was one of the victims of a three-vehicular crash yesterday,” Xavier said. “I wish to commiserate with the family of young Rikki Samuel during this period of grief.”
The UWP candidate noted that while the crash occurred in the neighboring constituency of Vieux Fort South, its emotional impact transcends borders.
“I extend my comfort and prayers to those in grief and all victims of yesterday’s unfortunate vehicular crash,” he said.
Callix Xavier mourns not only the loss of young Rikki but also the recurring tragedies on St Lucia’s roads. He urged drivers to remain vigilant and responsible as the island approaches the busy Christmas season, when road traffic traditionally increases.
“As we near the busy Christmas season, I call on all drivers and other users of our roads to demonstrate wisdom and good judgment at all times,” Xavier stated.
The accident has reignited public concern about road safety in southern St Lucia. Residents have called for stronger enforcement of traffic laws, better lighting along key highway sections, and increased public education on defensive driving.
The Banse La Grace community and the staff of the Combined School have expressed deep sadness over the death of the four-year-old student. Neighbors and teachers described Rikki as bright, cheerful, and full of potential, a child whose life was cut tragically short.
As investigations continue into the cause of the collision, authorities have urged road users to cooperate fully with law enforcement. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is expected to issue an official statement once inquiries are complete.
Callix Xavier’s public expression of sympathy has resonated with many in the south, underscoring a shared call for reflection and responsibility on St Lucia’s roads.
Unitedpac St Lucia News will continue to follow updates from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force as more details emerge regarding the Vieux Fort accident.
