Berbice woman strangles daughter, 7, to death

A seven-year-old girl was strangled to death by her mother, who also attempted to take the life of her almost two-year-old son.

Dead is Isabella Dabadial, a student of Cooper Primary School and resident of Fyrish Road, Corentyne, Berbice.

The incident occurred at around 11:30h today during which the woman, 26-year-old Sarah Elizabeth Shivpersaud, also attempted to take her life.

In fact, the woman shared a photo with her and the two children on Facebook post this morning with the caption: “Me and my babies last pic! I’m sorry! May God forgive me!”

Based on information reaching this publication, Shivpersaud was reportedly experiencing frustration after her husband had left home several days prior and refused to return.

The woman told investigators that she woke up this morning and had nothing to eat, which led her to suffocate her 7-year-old daughter. She also admitted that she attempted to strangle her 21-month-old son, Ethan, but was unsuccessful.

The discovery was made by the children’s grandmother, who had travelled to visit. Upon arrival at the home, she observed the situation and reported the matter to the police.

It was further reported that Shivpersaud slit a vein behind both her ankles in an apparent attempt to take her own life. She was subsequently escorted, along with the children, to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where Isabella was pronounced dead on arrival.

The woman was admitted, treated, and sutured, and is presently in a stable condition under police guard.