ST MARY, Jamaica — Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman who drowned after a private motor vehicle plunged into a river along the Agualta Vale main road, in the vicinity of the Wag Water Bridge, in St Mary on Monday.

The deceased has been identified as 31 year-old Shirnell Maxine Ettienne of Trinidad and Tobago.

Police reports are that around 10:30 am, Ettienne was among four occupants of a Toyota Corolla Altis travelling west along the roadway when, on reaching a left hand corner in the vicinity of the Wag Water Bridge, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle. The car veered across the roadway and plunged into the river.

Three of the occupants managed to exit the vehicle, but Ettienne was swept away by the strong current after losing her footing while attempting to get to safety. Her body was later recovered by a resident in the area.

Ettienne was pronounced dead at the Annotto Bay Hospital while the others were treated for their injuries and released.

The St Mary police are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution when travelling especially on roadways with sharp bends and during wet or hazardous conditions.

“Drivers are reminded to obey the speed limit, remain alert and operate their vehicles in a manner that ensures the safety of all road users,” the St Mary Police said in a release.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.