“RCIPS confirms that an investigation is currently underway into the circumstances leading up to the collision between the Jolly Roger and a small cardboard craft participating in the Caybrew Cardboard Boat Race on Saturday 15th November. 2014.

Although in the early stages of the investigation it is clear that there is a distinctive difference between what is fact, and what is speculation.

RCIPS – JMU is unable to go into specifics of the investigation but the following was observed.

RCIPS was notified of the incident on Monday the 17th November 2014 by a concerned citizen who witnessed the events and who was deeply concerned.

There were NO calls received by the emergency communication center (911) on the afternoon of the incident.

The female minor injured was assessed and treated by medical personnel, and while a concussion was sustained, it was deemed as being minor. There has been no indication of a skull fracture as has been rumored.

A Joint Marine Unit (JMU) vessel was assigned to police the event and was on location during the race, however contrary to what has been circulated, this vessel did not ignore pleas for assistance, as it was engaged with rendering assistance to other participants of the race who’s vessel had sunk. The Marine vessel was to the rear and right of the Jolly Roger at the time of the incident and the officers did not did not see the collision.

A RCIPS spokesperson said “While we cannot go into specifics of the investigation, we can confirm that statements have been recorded from the injured party and her parents. All persons spoken to so far indicated that they did not alert any of the authorities at the time for assistance”.

The matter is under investigation and anyone with witnessing the incident can contact Inspector Ian Yearwood or Constable Cyril Gordon on 949 7710. A file will be submitted to the Office Department of Public Prosecutions for a ruling.