By Sue-Ann Wayow
A MAN who allegedly accused his wife of infidelity before setting her house on fire died in it in Mayaro.
Police believe that the man identified as 55-year-old Larry Neaves committed suicide.
The incident occurred on Saturday when Neaves reportedly chopped his wife and their son, who ran to assist his mother.
The mother and son were able to get help from neighbours after running out the house and received medical treatment first at the Mayaro Health Centre and then at the Sangre Grande Hospital.
However, after they ran from the house, it caught afire and Neaves burnt body was found on a bed. The house was completely destroyed.
On Sunday, former member of parliament for Mayaro, Rushton Paray said he was heartbroken by the events that unfolded in Grand Lagoon where he also lives.
He said the entire community was in shock over the act of violence that should not have occurred.
“Domestic violence is a growing crisis in our country, and it is no longer enough to offer thoughts and prayers. We need serious intervention. Victims must have access to safe spaces, mental health support, and fast police response especially in rural communities like ours,” Paray said.
He called on the Ministries of National Security and Social Development to deploy urgent outreach and counselling services to the area.
Paray said, “Our residents deserve more than reactive statements, we need real investment in community protection.”
He also urged the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) to prioritise domestic violence cases and strengthen its presence in Mayaro.
“Too often these tragedies follow warning signs that go unanswered,” Paray said.
He also encouraged his fellow residents to look out for each other and if they see abuse to report it.
Paray advised, “Don’t wait for another house to go up in flames before we act. This was a preventable loss. Let us not stay silent.”
