By Christian Appleton
Dougbo, Grand Kru County – A 17-year-old boy, Sam Toe, tragically drowned in a gold mine in Dougbo on Wednesday, August 14, 2025, prompting a full investigation by the Liberia National Police (LNP). The incident has renewed community calls for stricter safety measures in unregulated mining zones.
According to the LNP’s Grand Kru Detachment, the tragedy occurred around 3:00 p.m. after the teenager reportedly delivered food to a relative working in the mine. On his way back, he decided to bathe in the mining pit.
Preliminary police findings indicate that Toe was accompanied by two friends—both under the age of 15—who chose not to swim. The friends watched from the edge as Sam entered the water. Shortly afterward, they saw him struggling and behaving erratically before he disappeared under the water. The children quickly raised an alarm, but despite the efforts of nearby miners, rescuers were unable to save him in time. Sam Toe was pronounced dead at the scene.
A team of medical practitioners and an 11-member coroner’s jury later examined the body and confirmed his death. Investigators say there were no immediate signs of foul play, but inquiries are ongoing.
Family members revealed that the deceased was a resident of Pleebo City, Maryland County, and a student at the Liberia Christian Assembly (LCA) School. He had traveled to Dougbo for the school break to visit his parents.
This tragedy has reignited community concerns over safety in mining zones. Many of these pits, particularly in southeastern Liberia, remain unregulated and pose significant risks to both residents and children. Authorities say they are committed to fully investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and are continuing to interview eyewitnesses. Meanwhile, local leaders and community members are calling for stricter enforcement of mining safety laws to prevent further tragedies.