The Police in Anguilla are continuing their investigations into the shooting death of Renario Richardson, 26, of Blowing Point and are looking for clues that would lead to the prosecution of the person or persons who committed the crime on Saturday night, December 21, at Sandy Hill.
The police reported that Renario was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident. Two other persons reportedly sustained injuries and were treated at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and discharged.
So far, the police arrested a suspect on Wednesday January 1, as they continued their search for the shooter or shooters.
Renario, who was married, lived with his wife and their three-year-old daughter at the home of his parents, Ronie and Cheryl Richardson. He was an employee at Lloyd’s Aviation Services at the Clayton Lloyd International Airport. He was described by his father as a very peace-loving young man, a friend of many, and one who normally stayed at home and out of trouble.
The violent death of Renario has triggered a new round of concern and condemnation in Anguilla. One of the first official statements came from Mr Jerome Roberts, the Elected Representative for the East End/Sandy Hill constituency and Minister of Home Affairs:
“Our hearts go out at this time to the grieving families, friends and loved ones of the young man who lost his life and the others who were injured,” the Minister stated in part. “They are hurting at this time and need our support. As Anguillians, we need to join hearts and hands, especially during this sacred season in which we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour. We need to demonstrate the close knit bonds of friendship and community for which we are renowned. We cannot afford to continue to be passive and tolerate this kind of reckless behaviour any longer.”
He urged persons having information to cooperate with the police in order to bring the perpetrator(s) to justice.
On December 24, the Governor’s Office issued a press release following a meeting between Governor Christina Scott and Commissioner of Police, Rudolph Proctor.
The Press Release said: “The shootings and senseless murder which took place at the weekend, as part of what should have been a celebration of Christmas, were an attack not just on individuals, but on our community, our economy, and our way of life. My thoughts are with the friends and families who are mourning their loss. Those who believe that disagreements can be resolved through the use of guns hold us all hostages. Those who protect them are simply supporting the continuation of violence. Now is not a time retaliation, but for reconciliation. It is only by standing together against violence that we will be able to stop the killing that rips our community apart.
“The police have been working around the clock to bring those responsible to justice. I was pleased to hear that a number of raids have taken place on the homes of suspects; that two people have been held in custody for questioning, and over ten statements taken in connection to the events. The RAPF will continue actively to pursue the leads they have. I call on all Anguillians to do what they can to support the police at this time.”
In commenting on the incident, Commissioner Proctor said: “I am grateful to those persons who have come forward already with information about Saturday’s shootings. It will be impossible for us to take forward our investigations, and bring those responsible to justice, unless people are willing to make statements. If persons have information that can help us stop the violence, they should report to any police officer who they have confidence and trust in. Alternatively, the public can call the crime stoppers number anonymously on 4974000 or report on the confidential website www.gov.ai/911. Any information will be treated in the strictest confidence.”
In addition to the above statements a letter, signed by a group referred to as the “Blowing Point Peacemakers”, staged a march to the Governor’s Office on Friday, December 27. The letter, together with a suggested list of issues and ideas, was delivered to Governor Christina Scott by Ms Donalee Richardson, a retired Police Officer, and aunt of the Renario Richardson. Both documents are published elsewhere in this edition of The Anguillian.
