Police renew call for leads on 2023 double murder at a funeral

The Royal Anguilla Police Force has renewed its call for information on the horrific double murder that took place during a funeral service at Sandy Ground Cemetery in 2023.

Two masked men fired what is thought to have been automatic weapons into the crowd of attendees at about 12.50pm on 20 December, killing two men and injuring several others.

Nineteen-year-old John Kennedy of Long Bay was pronounced dead at the scene and 74-year-old Edwin Henderson from St Martin died on arrival at the hospital.

To date no one has been charged with any offence.

“This tragic incident claimed two lives, left others injured, and traumatised many. Investigations are ongoing, but no charges have been made,” the police force said in a Facebook statement.

“If you have any information, no matter how small, please contact any police officer or visit our confidential website. Help us bring justice to the victims and ensure community safety.”

‘Shocking’ incident

The day after the shooting, on 21 December, 2023, the Governor’s Office and the Office of the Premier held a joint press conference on what they called a “shocking” incident.

On addressing those gathered, Commissioner of Police Robert Clark said the funeral was that of Alessandro Miguel Mussington.

“During the interment, two masked persons approached those in the funeral with what we believe to be automatic weapons and fired a number of shots before making off,” he said.

The two assailants escaped in what is thought to have been a white Suzuki Swift car – which officers later recovered.

“As a result of this indiscriminate shooting, five persons were shot, two of which are unfortunately now deceased and three were taken to hospital,” Clark said.

One of the injured was believed to have suffered life-changing injuries.

At the time, three people were taken into custody to assist with police inquiries but were later released.