Nearly one year ago, 14-year-old Shaquan Richardson was killed when a shooter opened fire on a group school children at James Ronald Webster Park.
The suspect fled the scene and remains unidentified to this day.
As the anniversary of the tragic incident approaches, the Royal Anguilla Police Force is renewing its appeal for public assistance in the investigation into Shaquan’s murder.
On 5 October, 2023, at about 12pm Shaquan was sitting under a tree in the park in in The Quarter with friends from Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School during their lunchtime break.
An armed person approached the group and opened fire.
Shaquan and 17-year-old Jhakia Dasent were struck with bullets as they attempted to flee. Jhakia was injured in the incident.
The murder victim’s body was discovered hours later in the park, after his family reported him missing.
https://www.facebook.com/ALHCSchool/videos/1007208631179069
In a public address video on 3 October, Commissioner of Police Robert Clark stressed that Shaquan was just 14 years old and had his whole life ahead of him.
“We’re urging anyone who is knowledge of this crime or the suspect’s identity to contact us immediately,” he said.
He explained that any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could be the key to solving the case.
“Royal Anguilla Police Force is committed to ensuring that all victims of gun violence are not forgotten, including Shaquan Richardson and Jhakia Dasent,” he said.
“As we mark this anniversary, let us stand together as a community to honour all victims and work to bring those who commit acts of violence to justice.
“Thank you for your vigilance, your compassion, and your support in keeping in Anguilla safe.”
A police spokesperson told Anguilla Focus that the shooter was slim built, wearing dark clothing and a mask. “No further description was obtained,” they said.
Anyone with information on this incident can call 911, (264) 497-2333 or 497-5333, or leave an anonymous message, video or photo at www.gov.ai/911
Information from the website is stored in a secure location in California in the United States of America and access to it is tightly controlled.
https://www.facebook.com/RoyalAnguillaPoliceForce/videos/1201062494522307
