–  after firing employee amid threats

Police are investigating the circumstances, which led to the death of a West Coast Berbice (WCB) cattle farmer in the backdam on Tuesday afternoon.

Edward Pestano

Dead is Edward Pestano, 61, of Number 40 Village, WCB, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).
Reports are that Pestano was in the backdam with his 12-year-old grandson when he observed that one of the employees at his cattle ranch was reportedly smoking an illegal substance. The farmer immediately fired the worker and asked him to leave the ranch.

According to information reaching this publication, a heated argument ensued between Pestano and the fired employee, who demanded immediate pay for the days he had already worked. During the argument, the employee reportedly threatened to harm Pestano’s family and burn the cattle ranch. This newspaper was told that the irate man had also threatened to poison Pestano’s animals.

The fired employee was later seen leaving the ranch, but soon after returned. At the time, Pestano was on his motorbike.
Details of what transpired are sketchy; however, the fired employee was seen riding behind Pestano. Moments later, his grandson found him lying on the ground with his motorbike resting on him. The 12-year-old tried desperately to remove the heavy bike, but was unable to do so, this newspaper was told.

He left the scene and went in search of help, returning within the hour, but by the time help arrived, Pestano is said to have passed away.

The Police were summoned and arrived at the scene before night fall and took possession of the body.
They are on the hunt for the fired employee, who has since gone into hiding.

An autopsy is expected to be performed on the body today.

Meanwhile, Pestano leaves to mourn four children and his wife, Rita Pestano. Two years ago, one of Pestano’s sons died in a road accident while another son died by drowning in 1986.