BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- AN investigation is currently underway following the gruesome discovery of two males in the Newton Ground area, which has sent shockwaves through the Federation.
Politicians across the political spectrum on both islands have condemned the latest act of violence.
At around 9:52 a.m. yesterday (Aug. 2), the police were called to the location near Newton Ground Bay, where a vehicle with two deceased males, both with apparent gunshot wounds, was discovered. Officers from the Sandy Point Police Station and other units were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the bodies of two males, identified as 30-year-old Devon Parris of Stoney Grove, Nevis, and 9-year-old J'Marni Smithen of Craddock Road, Nevis. The victims were lying face down with visible gunshot wounds to their heads inside a red Honda Fit motor car bearing registration number R 66.
Early results from the police investigation revealed that both individuals left a family member's residence at approximately 4:00 p.m. on Thursday (Aug. 1) intending to attend a birthday party at the Caribbean Cinema. However, they never arrived at their destination. Calls to Devon's cell phone went unanswered.
Yesterday monring (Aug. 2), a concerned citizen in the Newton Ground area, near the sea, noticed the vehicle in some bushes facing south and observed the lifeless bodies inside.
Investigations are ongoing, and the police force has stated that it "is committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. We urge anyone with information related to this case to come forward and assist with the investigation."
The Federation has seen an upsurge in gun violence in recent weeks. The Minister of National Security, Dr. Terrance Drew, confirmed that plans are underway to host a national consultation to address the crime problem.
The number of homicides reported in the Federation increased to 22 for the year.
