VINLEC expresses condolences as police investigate death in Bequia

A screenshot of the scene where a man’s body was retrieved from a Breadfruit tree in Bequia and the logo of VINLEC.

By Admin. Updated 4:58 p.m., Monday, June 1, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The state-owned electricity company, VINLEC has expressed condolences following the death of a man in Bequia, as police continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

In a statement issued on Monday, St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC) said it was “deeply saddened” by reports of the incident in Port Elizabeth, Bequia, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, which resulted in the death of 40-year-old Clias Dean.

The company said its Board of Directors, management and staff extended sincere condolences to Mr Dean’s family and loved ones.

VINLEC also stated that it is committed to public safety and the communities it serves, adding that an investigation is being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The company said it remains cooperative with any official enquiries by the relevant authorities.

Meanwhile, the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) said it is investigating the death.

According to a police release issued on June 1, preliminary investigations indicate that at about 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, Mr Dean, a labourer originally from Sandy Bay who resided at Cemetery Hill, Bequia, went to pick breadfruit from a tree near his residence.

Police said he was later observed motionless in the tree and authorities were notified.

Officers who responded to the report found Mr Dean in an upright position between two limbs of the tree.

A District Medical Officer subsequently visited the scene and pronounced him dead.

Police said a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death.

The RSVGPF noted that investigations are continuing and extended condolences to Mr Dean’s family and friends.

Reports circulating on social media have suggested that the incident involved electrocution. However, neither the police nor VINLEC has confirmed a cause of death.

Authorities have indicated that investigations are ongoing, and the cause of death is expected to be determined following further enquiries and a post-mortem examination.

END