Nine-Day Probe Launched into Jasher Francois’ Death

August 13, 2025 – An independent, four-member team has been assembled to investigate the tragic death of six-year-old Jasher Francois, who died at the San Fernando Teaching Hospital after receiving an intravenous drug. The probe was commissioned by Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodeo, at the instruction of the Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, and is expected to be completed by August 20th.

Jasher had been admitted to the hospital for a dry cough but died shortly after the drug was administered. A first autopsy cited aspiration pneumonitis, likely triggered by viral pneumonia, as the cause of death. However, a second, privately commissioned autopsy also found additional findings, including pleural petechiae, cyanosis of the extremities, marked cerebral oedema, and acute renal injury. The expert team, which includes a consultant paediatrician, a registered nurse, a former chief executive officer of a regional health authority, and a paediatric intensive care specialist who is also an attorney, will determine whether the proper standards of care, clinical judgement, and professional responsibilities were upheld. The ministry has stated its commitment to transparency and accountability, with a focus on ensuring the highest standards of care, particularly for children. The service to remember Jasher Franscois will be held on Saturday at the Baptist Ambassadors Church in St. John’s Village, San Fernando.