The Office of the Chief Secretary has acknowledged with concern a series of serious incidents that occurred across Tobago on Saturday, including a drowning at Buccoo Reef Marine Park.

The victim has been identified as 71-year-old Neil Morris, who was born in Grenada, grew up in Trinidad, and later spent much of his young life in the United Kingdom. He had returned to Trinidad on a short vacation and celebrated his birthday just days earlier.

According to reports, Morris fell from a glass-bottom reef tour boat and got into difficulty in the water. A British national, described as his friend, leapt in to rescue him but sustained severe injuries. Family members said the man lost both legs in the incident.

Morris drowned despite the rescue attempt. The injured man remains hospitalised in Tobago, where he is receiving medical care. Officials said his condition is stable and he is being supported by his wife, who is on the island.

Chief Secretary Farley Augustine confirmed he is in active discussions with Grenada’s Trade and Economic Commissioner, Elwyn McQuilkin, to ensure the deceased’s next of kin are contacted and supported. Augustine also spoke with the British High Commissioner, Jon Mark Dean, regarding the welfare of the injured national. Trauma counselling is being provided to friends of the deceased and injured.

The Office of the Chief Secretary also reported two other incidents on the island the same day: a foreign national involved in a shooting at Store Bay, who was later apprehended by police, and a vehicular accident in Bacolet, in which a single occupant was hospitalised.

In extending sympathies to all those affected, the Office assured the public that the situations are being treated with urgency and seriousness by the relevant authorities.