BERBICE, Guyana, (CMC) — The horse racing community is in mourning after 19-year-old jockey Kishawn Pereira suffered fatal injuries during a race at the Guyana Cup meet on Sunday evening.

The promising young rider fell from his horse and was trampled on the track, leading to his tragic death.

The incident occurred during a race held after 6 pm at the Berbice track, where poor lighting and muddy conditions, caused by heavy rainfall, had already raised concerns among spectators.

Witnesses reported that Pereira’s horse may have stumbled at high speed, throwing the jockey to the ground before he was struck by other horses.

Despite immediate medical attention and an emergency rush to a nearby hospital, Pereira was pronounced dead. His riderless horse continued the race and crossed the finishing line as first responders fought to save the young man’s life.

Authorities suspect Pereira sustained multiple severe injuries from the fall and subsequent trampling. Racing fans had earlier criticised the unsafe track conditions, citing inadequate lighting and slippery terrain.

An official investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident and whether negligence played a role. The tragic loss has cast a shadow over the event, sparking calls for improved safety measures in horse racing.