Dominic Bernard: Five charged in connection with the murder of British teenager in Guyana

Aspiring: Mr Bernard's dream was to study film-making
Jamie Bullen16 January 2016

Five people have been charged in connection with the murder of a British teenager in Guyana.

Aspiring film-maker Dominic Bernard, 18, from Epsom, Surrey, disappeared when he went to visit the South American country in October.

His body was found in a shallow grave in a farming village last week. He suffered severe head injuries and authorities believe he may have been targeted in a robbery.

Two men have been charged with murder, while a man and two women appeared before a judge on Friday accused of helping to bury Mr Bernard’s body and camera equipment.

Police have reportedly recovered a hammer which is believed to have been one of the murder weapons.

Mr Bernard’s parents Andrew and Lisa said their son had travelled to Guyana to pursue his dream of studying film-making.

In a statement, the family said: "Dominic Bernard, aged just 18, was full of hope, ambition, creativity, self-respect, faith and trust.

"In chasing his dreams, exploring his heritage and doing the things that brought joy to his heart, and so many others, he tragically encountered those who do not share these values."

Local media reported Mr Bernard's godbrother Aaron Hing, 22, and 23-year-old Staymon George have been charged with the murder.

The 18-year-old flew to Guyana's capital Georgetown on October 14 and was supposed to fly back to England on November 5 but never got on his flight, according to reports.

His father Andrew is understood to have flown out to Guyana following his son's disappearance to assist police.

Additional reporting by PA

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