A tragic accident occurred on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at approximately 6:30 AM in Baie-Mahault, Guadeloupe, claiming the lives of five young individuals. The incident, which took place between the Beausoleil and Wonche roundabouts, involved a head-on collision between two light vehicles, as reported by the Guadeloupe Fire Department (SDIS 971).
According to initial reports, the deceased included a 20-year-old woman and four men in their twenties, all of whom were in the same vehicle. They were reportedly from Cité Crâne in Lamentin. The driver of the second vehicle, a 26-year-old man, sustained serious injuries and was transported to the CHU of Guadeloupe for medical treatment.
This tragic event marks a somber milestone, bringing the total number of road fatalities in Guadeloupe to 20 since the start of 2025. The incident has sparked a wave of grief and concern across the region.
Emergency responders, including 20 firefighters and three officers, were dispatched to the scene. By 9 AM, the bodies of the victims were taken care of by funeral ambulances. The local authorities, including Hélène Polifonte, the mayor of Baie-Mahault, and Jocelyn Sapotille, the mayor of Lamentin, were present at the site to offer their condolences and support.
In response to the tragedy, a psychological support unit has been established by the SAMU in collaboration with the mayor of Lamentin. Mayor Sapotille expressed his deep sorrow, stating, "It’s difficult; these are families that I know very well, young people in the prime of their lives."
As investigations into the accident continue, the prosecutor of Pointe-à-Pitre has indicated that initial findings suggest the driver of the vehicle carrying the five victims may have swerved into the left lane, resulting in the fatal collision. The investigation has been assigned to the Baie-Mahault Gendarmerie Brigade.
Captain Davy Mendès of the Pointe-à-Pitre Gendarmerie confirmed that some identities of the deceased victims are still being verified. He stated, "A few identities remain to be confirmed." The authorities are conducting thorough examinations of the vehicles involved and will perform toxicological analyses in the coming days.
The political response to this tragic accident has been swift. Ary Chalus, President of the Region, expressed his condolences and emphasized the urgent need for collective action against road safety issues. He stated, "This new tragedy underscores, once again, the horrific toll of accidents on our Guadeloupean roads. It reminds us of the urgency to mobilize resolutely against road insecurity." Chalus reaffirmed his commitment to supporting awareness and prevention campaigns to enhance road safety.
Guy Losbar, President of the Departmental Council, echoed these sentiments, declaring, "In the face of urgency, we must collectively redouble our vigilance and responsibility. This is the meaning of our commitment to continue and multiply actions in this direction, with a strong desire to act sustainably to save lives."
Deputy Elie Califer also weighed in on the situation, highlighting the importance of individual responsibility in ensuring road safety. He remarked, "It is evident that the authorities have a crucial role to play in improving road safety. But let us not forget that the first line of defense against these tragedies remains our own behavior at the wheel. Caution is not just a word; it is the obligation we must assign ourselves for our loved ones and for others."
Max Mathiasin, another deputy from Guadeloupe, expressed his deep sadness over the loss of five young lives, stating, "This tragedy has taken away five young people from our country."
Olivier Serva, a fellow deputy, emphasized the need for preventative measures, control, and awareness regarding road safety. He stated, "It is imperative that everyone becomes aware of the risks and adopts responsible behavior so that these tragedies cease to destroy lives. It is essential to improve road safety and protect the population."
In addition to the political figures, several mayors, including Eric Jalton from Abymes and Michel Hotin from Gosier, have expressed their condolences and support for the bereaved families.
Among the victims was a high school student attending the Augustin Arron vocational high school. In light of this, the school administration plans to set up a listening center to provide psychological support to students and staff affected by the tragedy. Christine Gangloff-Ziegler, the academy rector, stated that the school is committed to helping its community during this difficult time.
In a heartfelt message, Bishop Philippe Guiougou of Basse-Terre and Pointe-à-Pitre expressed his profound sadness over the incident. He extended his prayers and compassion to the families affected by the accident, stating, "I assure the parents and loved ones of the victims of my prayers and strong compassion in these very painful circumstances."
This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved road safety measures and community awareness. As the investigation unfolds, the families of the victims and the wider community continue to grapple with the profound loss and seek ways to prevent future tragedies on the roads of Guadeloupe.
