As Argyle residents continue to grapple with the loss of two teenagers from the village on Sunday, locals are questioning the operation of the Argyle Waterfall.
Kharisha Thompson 15, and Chrislon Walter’s 19, both died when they were swept away by a gush of water while they were bathing on the third level of the Argyle Waterfall. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
Via their Facebook page on Monday, the board of directors and management of the Argyle Waterfall expressed condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased. They also revealed that the deceased did not pay to enter the facility.
“Although not being ticketed guests at the falls every life is a cherished one and we mourn their passing,” the board said.
They also said, that the tragedy had left the entire staff and villages by extension in grief, and reminded all potential patrons to utilise the services of their trained staff.
“We pray for comfort to all their friends and family in this very difficult time. We remind all visitors to the falls to seek the services of our trained tour guides to facilitate the Argyle Waterfall Experience,” the release said.
However, the condolence message did not sit well with residents from the area with some stating that the tone of the message was in poor taste. One resident said, “The management of Argyle Waterfalls is all about the money cause that trail has been in the same condition for years no improvement. They are quick to post about not being a ticketed visitor but everyone has to pass in front of the ticketed area to enter. So they need to come again with this condolences. It was the worst ever and better they had sent none.”
Meanwhile, Argyle resident Cherishe Trotman is questioning the operations of the facility. The Argyle Waterfall is branded as one of the 101 preferred tourist sites, being marketed by the THA’s Division of Tourism and the Tobago Tourism Agency.
“Since we’re a reactive society, let’s react. I’m waiting to hear that the Argyle Waterfall facility is declared closed until safety measures are implemented. Adequate signage is needed to warn visitors of the risks during the various seasons. Where are the signs showing the depth of the various ‘pools’? Are there lifeguards on duty daily?”
Up to yesterday, parents of the teenagers were inconsolable. Guardian Media was informed that Kharisha’s mother, Isha Gray-Thomas, had to seek medical attention at the Scarborough General Hospital for elevated blood pressure and asthma attacks. She was unable to speak with the media, and also needed help walking and standing.
Kharisha’s stepfather Jason Thomas said her going to the Argyle Waterfall was an out of the ordinary act.
“We go everywhere together as a family, we go out together and come back together. If we are going on the beach we go and return as a family.”
Kharisha, a form five student of the Scarborough Secondary School, was described as a well-rounded student with a kind and jovial personality.
Chrislon was also described as a quiet and humble young man, who was always willing to help relatives and friends.
Autopsies are scheduled to take place on Tuesday.