Police Confirm Death Of Jahcari Francis
[Updated] The police confirmed that a man has died following a shooting in Devonshire last night.
A police spokesperson said, “Around 10:45pm Wednesday, July 19th police responded to reports of gunshots in the Upland Street, Devonshire area.
“Initial information indicates that one man was shot and taken to hospital via ambulance. An investigation into this shooting is underway and additional details will be provided as they become available.”
In a subsequent update, Chief Inspector Na’imah Astwood provided a brief statement at the scene confirming that the male victim was later pronounced dead.
“The investigation into this fatal shooting continues and anyone that saw any suspicious activity in the Upland Street, Devonshire area Wednesday night is urged to contact the Serious Crime Unit on 247-1739 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline 800-8477, the police said.
Update 9.32am: Premier David Burt said, “During the late hours of 19 July, a shooting took place in Devonshire and a young man was fatally injured. My thoughts, prayers and condolences are extended to the man’s family and friends at their tragic loss.
“I urge everyone in our community who may know something about this senseless act of violence to contact the Bermuda Police Service or the anonymous Crime Stoppers Hotline so the perpetrators of this crime can be brought to justice.”
Update 11:50pm: A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service can now confirm the death of 20 year old Jahcari Francis and extends sincere condolences to his family and friends.
“Mr. Francis was fatally shot at an Upland Street, Devonshire residence around 10:45pm Wednesday, July 19th and later pronounced dead at the scene by an on call doctor.
“A Family Liaison Officer has been assigned to support the deceased’s family at this difficult time.
“The scene was cordoned off and processed by the relevant police personnel.
“While detectives believe this has the hallmarks of a gang related murder, they continue to pursue all lines of enquiry to determine the circumstances that led to this callous act.
“The investigation into this year’s second fatal shooting continues and Senior Investigating Officer Detective Sergeant Jason Smith urges anyone that saw any suspicious activity in the Upland Street, Devonshire area Wednesday night to contact him on 247-1218, 717-0864 or e-mail jsmith2@bps.bm.
“Alternatively, persons with information that can assist investigators are asked to call the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline 800-8477.”
