The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has confirmed the deaths of two young men following a shooting in the early hours on September 12 in La Tourney, Vieux Fort. The victims have been identified as 24-year-old Rebelto Nelson of La Tourney and 22-year-old Travis Charles of Desruisseaux, Micoud.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Wayne Charlery, who is responsible for crime management and citizen security, officers from the Vieux Fort Police Station responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 5:45 a.m.
“Preliminary investigations discovered two male individuals lying motionless and unresponsive on the crime scene, exhibiting signs of apparent gunshot injuries,” said Charlery.
“The victims were pronounced dead at the scene by a medical practitioner.”
The RSLPF also confirmed that both men were known to police. While investigators have not released details about a possible motive, the Criminal Investigations Department has launched a full investigation and is seeking public assistance.
“The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is urging persons with information regarding these homicides to contact the Viewport Police Station at 456-3906.
“Additionally, the Crime Hotline 555 and the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force Crime Hotline app are available for anonymous reporting.”
As part of its broader response, the police force plans to offer mental health and psychosocial support to the families and loved ones of the deceased – an approach officials say is critical to reducing community trauma and preventing retaliatory violence.
“Please cooperate with us as we seek to manage this tragic situation. I again encourage the public to assist the police in our efforts in solving this violent crime.”
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has extended its condolences to the victims’ families and continues to encourage anyone with information, no matter how minor, to come forward.
