Footage of the bun-eating choking hazard that killed a man on Saturday has surfaced. The incident in Christiana, Manchester, began as any other bun-eating competition, with cheers from the crowd and the determination of three participants. Among the competitors was Kerron Powell, a 37-year-old farmer, who ended up choking to death during the public promotional eating contest.
In the video, the contestants are standing on the stage shortly after midday along Main Street, taking large bites of their buns. Powell is vigorously eating when he begins to struggle with his food. The hosts noticed him showing signs of distress. They pat his back multiple times while enquiring about his well-being before requesting water.
According to investigators, he began choking before vomiting during the contest. Powell, who lived in the Litchfield district of Trelawny, was later pronounced dead after he was transported to the hospital.
Law enforcement officials have classified the case as a death by misadventure, with initial findings suggesting that Powell may have suffocated after food became lodged in his throat. Relatives of the deceased say they are still trying to come to terms with the sudden loss and are seeking clarity from the organisers of the event.
Family members disclosed that discussions have already begun with representatives of the company involved, who reportedly reached out following the incident and indicated that further communication and assistance would be provided.
His aunt, Carlene Johnson, told the Jamaica Star that her brother, who was in Christiana at the time, noticed a commotion and attempted to assist Powell, not immediately realising it was his nephew. “Him say everybody a crowd round and nah assist him,” she told the media.
Powell, who lived with a disability, was described by relatives as a hard-working and spirited individual who remained active in his community. Despite physical challenges with his hands, he reportedly earned a living through farming and maintained a routine similar to others in his district.
The family has expressed concern about the response at the scene, indicating that no medical personnel appeared to be readily available when the emergency unfolded. They believe quicker intervention may have made a difference.
“Some medical team should be there, nobody was there, no medical team, just his uncle,” she continued.
In addition to coping with the loss, Powell’s family say they are experiencing some financial hardships after Hurricane Melissa damaged their home.
