53-Year-Old Man Dies After Shooting
[Updating] The police are responding to a shooting in the Mary Victoria Road area in Devonshire this evening [Dec 11], with multiple police vehicles and officers on scene and crime scene tape is visible. Further details are limited at this time, however we will update as able.
Update 9.05pm: Audio | Initial police statement on the shooting of a man in Devonshire this evening
The police said that shortly after 7.45pm this evening, the police received reports of gunshots heard in the Mary Victoria Road area of Devonshire and upon arrival, the officers “found a male with gunshot wounds to the body.”
“They immediately began performing life saving measures and when EMTs arrived on the scene and they continued those lifesaving measures before transporting the injured person to hospital via ambulance.”
The police said they will provide further updates.
Update 10.30pm: The police have confirmed the sad news that the shooting victim, a 53-year-old man, has died.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the main police number 295-0011, call Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or provide the information to a police officer you know.
Update Dec 12, 8:29am: A police spokesperson said, “Around 7:48 p.m. on Monday, December 11, 2023, police received several reports of gunshots in the Mary Victoria Road, Devonshire, area.
“Upon arrival, officers discovered that a 53-year-old man had sustained gunshot injuries and immediately commenced life-saving measures.
“EMTs attended the scene and continued with life-saving efforts.
“The victim was transported via ambulance to King Edward Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later.”
Acting Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns said, “This marks the third firearms related incident in Bermuda this year and the fourth murder overall.”
“Tonight’s tragic incident means yet another family is left to mourn the passing of their loved one as a result of senseless violence.”
“This is a heavily populated neighborhood and we are appealing to residents who may have seen any suspicious activity or persons in the area prior to or, shortly after the incident or, who may have any information no matter how unimportant you may think it to be, to please get in contact with us and help bring those responsible to justice and bring some form of closure to the family of the deceased.”
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Odessa Philip of the Serious Crime Unit by calling 717-2193, the main police number, 295-0011 or, via e-mail at ophilip@bps.bm.
“You may also speak with a police officer you know or use the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm/
“If you’d prefer to provide the information anonymously, please call the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477.”
Update Dec 12, 11.42am: Shadow Minister of National Security Michael Dunkley said, “Less than a month ago, Bermuda experienced the loss of life as a result of gun violence and already we’ve found ourselves here again.
“The OBA extends its deepest condolences to the loved ones of the deceased.
“Families should be preparing for the festive holiday season, not making unexpected funeral preparations. When does this senselessness stop?
“What kind of sick satisfaction are these gunmen gaining? How do they sleep peacefully knowing that they’ve left a family devastated? Where has the moral fibre of this country gone?
“Too many lives have been snatched away at the hands of cold-hearted killers. Will we continue to remain silent, or we will find the courage and speak to the police?
“Please, if you know something, say something.”
Update Dec 12, 1.15pm: Minister of National Security Michael Weeks said, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred last night in Devonshire resulting in the loss of a life.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the victim. The violence that led to this senseless act affects us all, and we will support the Bermuda Police Service with its investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
“I urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward and assist the investigators. Please call police on 295-0011 or the confidential Crime Stoppers hotline on 800-8477.”
