Byron McDaniel and Claude Mills, Gleaner Reporters
A CANDLELIGHT vigil is scheduled for Walderston Square in Manchester today to mark the recent death of two women.
Maizie Powell and Mondle Muir died in separate hit-and-run speeding incidents within minutes of each other in the community on Independence Day, last week.
Both accidents occurred early in the morning in the middle of Walderston Square, and The community is in a deep state of mourning following the deaths.
Housewife Maizie Powell was a spectator at the first accident which had killed Muir less than an hour before she herself was hit by a car.
"She was everything that is good, courageous, kind, peaceful and loving ... I miss her a lot," said Oswald Powell, Maizie's husband.
Eyewitnesses say the car hit Powell and carried her on the bonnet for over 70 feet before she fell and died on the road. The driver reportedly sped off, but eventually gave himself up last Sunday.
TRUCK DRIVER ON THE RUN
Muir had been travelling as a pillion rider on a motorcycle when the motorcycle was hit by a pick-up truck. The driver of the truck has not yet been apprehended by the police. The rider of the cycle was hospitalised after the incident, and has since been released.
"It wicked, it really wicked, this pick-up driver caused the death of someone. Enough is enough; the NWA (National Works Agency) must do something about the road. There needs to be proper road signs or stoplights, or some sidewalks for the people. Good God man!" said one irate resident.
Yesterday, black flags fluttered on poles and buildings along the main road leading to the Walderston Square. A red X marked the spot where Powell's body laid battered and bloodied last week.
The citizens of the community hope the candlelight vigil will send a clear message that reckless driving must end. Six ministers of religion have been invited, while Member of Parliament Audley Shaw and Councillor Leroy Mitchell are expected to attend.
"Enough is enough and we the citizens must do all in our power to prevent the senseless killings of citizens," said Donovan Dougan, a member of the citizens' association.
"We are taking the Christian way of having a prayer vigil but there is an intolerant fringe that is hungry for justice; but we don't want that, so help us please," another resident pleaded.
