On the first anniversary of Adriana Younge’s death, her mother, Amecia Simon, said more could have been done in the early stages after her daughter was reported missing.
In an interview with Ignite News, Simon expressed mixed emotions ahead of the upcoming inquest, saying it offers hope while also underscoring what she sees as missed opportunities in the initial investigation.
“Kinda feels like a little hope, but yet still there should be much more that could’ve been done, cause it’s a year,” she said. “Everything that was there to show evidence of all the wrongdoings and getting persons held accountable…”
Simon also supported calls for the inquest to be televised, a position strongly backed by the family’s attorney, Dexter Todd.
Speaking at a memorial at the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, Todd renewed his call for transparency.
“I am looking forward to the inquest, and I am calling for it to be televised. I believe Guyana and the world need to see the level of investigation which was done in this matter,” he said.
Younge’s body was found hours after she was reported missing at the Double Day Hotel, sparking public outrage and questions about the circumstances of her death. Family members had previously raised concerns and carried out searches before her body was discovered on the premises. Allegations of visible injuries and inconsistencies in early accounts fuelled demands for a full and transparent investigation.
The case attracted widespread national attention, with calls for accountability focused on the initial response and handling of potential evidence.
Autopsy findings concluded that Younge died by drowning, with no evidence of trauma, assault, sexual violence, poisoning or foul play, and results consistent with prolonged submersion in water.
An inquest is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding her death as her family continues to seek answers one year on.
