Shooting Incidents During Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival Celebration

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival was marred by a shooting, resulting in one death and four injuries. The deceased was identified as Irvin Joaquin Mayora. A confrontation led a 61-year-old man to fire a weapon, unintentionally hitting others. The police continue to investigate the incident amidst heightened security measures.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival festivities were tragically disrupted by a shooting that resulted in one fatality and four injuries, including a United States citizen. The deceased has been identified as 30-year-old Irvin Joaquin Mayora, a Venezuelan national. The injured victims included individuals aged 66, 25, 29, and 65, hailing from various locations including Diego Martin, St James, Maraval, and Maryland, USA.

Initial reports indicate that a 61-year-old man from Carapichaima was confronted and attacked while walking along the Western Main Road near Vidale Street. In response, he drew a firearm from his waist and fired at the assailant, inadvertently injuring four others in the vicinity. Mayora subsequently fled the scene but collapsed nearby.

Following the incident, the 61-year-old suspect remained at the scene and was detained by security. He was subsequently handed over to responding police officers, along with the seizure of his firearm. The four victims were transported to St James District Hospital, with one, a 25-year-old man, in critical condition due to a head injury and later transferred to Port of Spain General Hospital.

Authorities, including a senior officer team visiting the crime scene, collected eleven spent 9mm shell casings. Despite suspicions regarding Mayora’s involvement as the attacker, police have not confirmed this as of the latest updates or his licensing status regarding the firearm. Ongoing enquiries are being conducted by WPC Clarke.

This incident occurred shortly after Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds and acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin expressed confidence in the police’s efforts to maintain safety during the Carnival celebrations, citing only one prior serious incident. A press briefing was anticipated to provide further updates to the public as the investigation continues, amid a State of Emergency in effect since December 29, 2024, although no curfew is currently imposed.

The Carnival season in Trinidad and Tobago was overshadowed by a tragic shooting incident that resulted in one death and multiple injuries. The situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety in public festivities. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, as the community reacts to the violent event that marred their celebrations. As the investigation progresses, updates are expected from law enforcement officials.

Original Source: cayman.loopnews.com