The death of Guyanese-born Barbadian musician Jermaine Forrester has plunged the local musical fraternity into mourning.The 33-year-old musician, who was residing in Springfield, Queens, New York, died on the spot at 12:48 a.m. yesterday after he was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser while attempting to cross a four-lane highway.Forrester, a member of the talented Forrester family, was remembered by all for his great work in the music industry both in Barbadosand abroad, and for his fun-loving nature.Uncle Philip Forrester remembered his favourite nephew as a “very lovable person”, and said he still could not believe that he was gone.“The news is still so shocking. I would like someone to wake me up and tell me that it is all a dream. “I do not know what I am going to do when I go back to New York and he is not there,” he said.Jermaine’s cousin, singer Shane Forrester, was still coming to grips with the death and was unable to comment. Another family member, musician Toni Norville posted on her Facebook page: “Dear God, how do I deal with this, 4D People fans, one of our loved members died this morning. “Jermaine gone too soon. Tears are not enough for you . . . Till we meet again. I miss you.”He was remembered by musician Ian Alleyne, who worked with Forrester while he resided in Barbados, as “a very affable lad”.“His death has come as quite a shock and it is a great loss to everyone because he was a talent,” Alleyne said.Jan Gibson, singer with Spice And Company, said that although she never shared a stage with Forrester, she, like all musicians, was deeply saddened.“I am still in shock by the news of his death and the tragic way that he died. My heart and prayers go out to his family and friends and I pray that God brings peace over them in this very difficult time,” she said.While in Barbados, Jermaine was a broadcaster on Hott FM, Mix FM and CBC 98.1. He also produced a solo album and was a member of the band Foreplay, along with 4D People.The driver of the car, John Dineen, 23, fled the scene. He was later arrested and charged with death by auto; endangering an injured victim; driving while intoxicated; and refusing to submit to a Breathalyzer test.He appeared in court yesterday afternoon.
