The fatal shooting of much-loved community member Shomari Fahie last weekend has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from across Anguilla.
The 37-year-old was pronounced dead in hospital after being shot at The Valley food court, also known as The Strip, in the early hours of Saturday, 8 March.
In an official statement, Premier Cora Richardson Hodge said the shooting was a “senseless act of violence” and described it as the “loss of a young life cut far too short”.
“He was a valued member of our community, and his untimely death leaves an undeniable void,” she said.
She told his family that they are in her thoughts and prayers and urged them to find strength in each other and comfort in the memories of Fahie’s life.
The premier added that it is time to stand together in solidarity, offer support to the grieving and reaffirm a collective commitment to addressing challenges that threaten the island’s safety and well-being.
“Let us be reminded of the importance of peace, respect, and compassion as we work to build a society where such senseless acts of violence are no longer a reality,” she said.
‘Tragic and senseless loss’
Cordell Richardson, representative in the Anguilla House of Assembly for Valley South, in an official statement on 8 March called Fahie’s death a “tragic and senseless loss”.
“As your representative, I am deeply shaken by this act of violence that has occurred in our peaceful district,” he said.
Richardson offered his deepest condolences to Fahie’s family and loved ones during what he called an “unimaginably difficult time”.
“No words can adequately express the sorrow we all feel, but please know that our entire community stands with you in grief and support,” he said.
He described Fahie as a vibrant individual who valued family, friendships and community connection, and said his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
“Let us come together in solidarity during this difficult time, supporting one another with compassion and strength as we navigate this profound loss,” he said.
A full life
Following his death, friends and family have posted dozens of tributes and messages of condolences on social media platforms.
One person, who described Fahie as their classmate, little brother and friend, said they were very sad that they would not hear him again playing soca music as he pulled up to their house.
“But I will always hold onto the memories we shared, the laughter, the good times. You truly lived life to the fullest,” they wrote.
Another said the loss of another young man in Anguilla is “crazy” but urged people to have faith and push on “as painful as it may be” to be a source of strength and comfort to others.
She told others if they love someone to “tell them, show them, spend time with them, call and check up on them, visit as often as you can, simply give them their flowers while they are present in the flesh”.
Dialogue over violence
Cordell Richardson said the scourge of gun violence has become an alarming reality in Anguilla’s once peaceful society.
“Each incident tears at the fabric of our community and leaves behind irreparable damage to families and communities,” he said.
“This endemic problem requires our immediate and unwavering attention as we work to reclaim the safety and security of our island.”
He urged all of Anguilla’s citizens to choose dialogue over violence when facing conflict.
“The momentary anger that leads to such tragic outcomes can never be reversed, but peaceful resolution through communication can prevent a lifetime of regret and sorrow,” he said.
He asked anyone with information on the incident to cooperate with the authorities to ensure justice is served.
Anyone with information on any criminal activity in Anguilla can call (264) 497-2333 or 497-5333, or leave an anonymous message, video or photo at www.gov.ai/911
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