Premier Ellis Lorenzo Webster addressed the nation “with a sad heart” and “shocked at the senseless murder of fourteen year old Shaquan Richardson.” He said it is reprehensible and must be condemned, and the perpetrators must be brought to justice.
ANGUILLA--It was reported that a shooting incident took place at the Ronald Webster Park on Thursday, October 5, during the lunch break and a student was shot and injured. Late that evening, a parent reported that her son had not returned home. Police returned to the Ronald Webster Park late on Thursday evening and a search resulted in fourteen year old Shaquan Richardson being found dead with gunshot wounds. Evidence was recovered from the scene and an investigation is underway. A post mortem will be conducted in the near future. In the meantime, the Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) is asking for anyone with information regarding the incident to report it to the police.
Governor Julia Crouch said that she is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic death. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and the friends of that young boy. It is hard to imagine the pain they are going through at this time. We stand with them in their grief. As a community, we need to respond to this terrible event by doing everything possible to bring those responsible to justice and tackle the scourge of gun crime in our community. I am in close contact with the RAPF who are working hard to identify and arrest those responsible,” she said.
“You can ring 911 or, if you are concerned for your safety make a report on the confidential website www.gov.ai/911 where your identity will be protected.”
Commissioner of Police Robert Clark reported on Friday that police have been carrying out search warrants, and four persons are currently in custody in relation to the shooting incidents.
Haydn Hughes, who was acting premier last week, addressed the nation saying that the island needs immediate and concerted action. He said that government, the RAPF, and the governor’s office are fully involved in making sure the rise of gun violence is curtailed. “Safety is our top priority,” he said. “The tranquillity and peace that we have grown to love is under threat. The future of our youth is under duress. The vitality of our economy will undoubtedly shrink under the pressure of social unrest.”
There is heightened security being put in place at the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School. Students are being discouraged from leaving the campus at lunch times and there will be no shuttle bus at that time. Physical education lessons at the Ronald Webster Park are suspended and there are police patrols along the school bus routes. Trauma and grief counselling is being offered to students and teachers.
