Three released without charge in North Valley homicide investigation

Police have released without charge three people who were arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Jaheim Gumbs of North Side.

According to a press release from the Royal Anguilla Police Force on 26 May, they were let go “pending further inquiries” as the investigation into the homicide continues.

At about 7.50pm on Friday, 9 May, officers received a report of a shooting along North Valley Drive, near Tender Loving Care nursing home and Vincy Flavour in North Valley.

Police and emergency medical services responded to the scene where they found Gumbs unresponsive with a gunshot wound to his back.

He was transported to the Princess Alexandra Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

“It is believed that the suspect or suspects – armed with a firearm – opened fire on a motor vehicle, injuring the driver,” the press release said.

“Mr Gumbs, who was in the vicinity, was fatally struck during the gunfire. The suspects fled the scene shortly after.”

Police found several bullet casings as well as a firearm with an extended magazine at the scene.

Later, a scene reconstruction was conducted by a ballistic expert, and additional forensic opportunities are actively being explored as part of the ongoing investigation.

In a press conference on 14 May, Commissioner of Police Robert Clark said the force is working through CCTV footage and looking at a number of hypotheses as to how and why the shooting happened.

“We have recovered one vehicle which was struck by a number of gunshots, and spoken to the driver of that [vehicle],” Clark said, adding that he surrendered it for forensic examination.

The police force continues to appeal to members of the public for any information, no matter how small, that may assist in bringing those responsible to justice.