Shooting During Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Results in Fatality and Injuries
Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival was tainted by a shooting that left one dead and four injured, including a US citizen. The deceased was identified as Irvin Joaquin Mayora, while several victims received treatment for injuries, with one in serious condition. Investigations are ongoing amid a State of Emergency in the country that allows increased police powers.
The Carnival celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago were tragically overshadowed by a shooting incident on Carnival Tuesday, resulting in one death and four injuries, including a US citizen. The deceased, Irvin Joaquin Mayora, a 30-year-old Venezuelan, was among those shot along the Western Main Road in St. James.
In addition to Mayora, the injured included a 66-year-old man from Diego Martin, a 25-year-old man from St. James, a 29-year-old woman from Maraval, and a 65-year-old woman visiting from Maryland, USA. The attack commenced when a 61-year-old man reported being confronted and attacked, prompting him to discharge his firearm, unintentionally hitting bystanders.
After the shooting, Mayora fled a short distance before collapsing. The shooter, a man from Carapichaima, remained at the scene and was apprehended by security. His firearm was seized by responding officers, and details regarding his firearm licensing status remain unclear.
Victims were transported to the St. James District Hospital for treatment. One individual sustained a serious head injury and was transferred to the Port of Spain General Hospital, while the conditions of the other victims are reported as stable.
The police discovered eleven 9mm spent shells at the scene, and high suspicions emerged regarding Mayora’s involvement in the initial attack. This violent incident occurred shortly after a parade led by Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds and Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin, promoting safety amidst the Carnival festivities.
The country is currently operating under a State of Emergency, initiated on December 29, 2024, which allows police and military additional powers without an active curfew. An upcoming press briefing was anticipated for further updates on the incident.
The Carnival celebrations were marred by a deadly shooting that resulted in one fatality and several injuries, highlighting concerns regarding public safety during the festivities. Authorities are continuing investigations while the country remains under a State of Emergency, underscoring the need for heightened security measures. The community awaits further updates from law enforcement on this tragic event and its implications for safety during celebratory gatherings.
Original Source: stlucia.loopnews.com
