By: Gabriel Parker/Peter Daarblo
BOMI COUNTY – In a devastating incident that has left the Moore Town community reeling, a 13-year-old girl, identified as Pinky Bugbay, drowned Thursday morning in the Maher River, amid fears of a recent chemical spill that may have contaminated the water.
The tragedy unfolded around 10:00 AM on May 15, 2025, when Pinky, accompanied by her friend Bendu, went to the river—a vital water source for the town—to collect fish.
Eyewitness accounts suggest the two girls initially found several dead fish along the bank, prompting concerns of contamination. However, it was the sight of a larger fish floating farther from shore that drew Pinky into deeper, more dangerous waters.
Despite Bendu’s pleas for caution, Pinky ventured further in. “We picked up some of the smaller fish,” Bendu recounted, her voice trembling. “Then a big one floated out. I told her not to go, but she did not listen. Moments later, she screamed, ‘Bendu, come for me!’ But I couldn’t reach her. She went under.”
In a panic, Bendu rushed back to the village to alert residents. A group of men immediately launched a search, but as of press time, Pinky’s body has not been recovered.
The tragedy has taken on a more alarming dimension amid reports of a suspected chemical spill in the Maher River.
According to Moore Town Chief Varney Mason, unknown individuals allegedly dumped a chemical substance upstream the night before the drowning.
“Early Thursday morning, villagers began noticing dead fish floating in the river,” Chief Mason told reporters. “This river is the only water source we have—for drinking, cooking, and bathing. Our people are in danger. We’re calling on the Environmental Protection Agency to urgently investigate.”
The nature of the substance remains unknown, and no individuals have been identified in connection with the alleged contamination. Meanwhile, residents are growing increasingly fearful of the river they once depended on for survival.
As search efforts for Pinky continue, grief and unease hang heavy over Moore Town. The community is not only mourning the loss of a bright young life but also demanding answers—and accountability.
“We cannot allow this to happen again,” Chief Mason said. “Our children deserve better. Our people deserve safe water.”
