Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival Celebrations Marred by Tragic Shooting Incident

A shooting incident during Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival has left one dead and four injured, including a U.S. citizen. The 30-year-old deceased was identified as Irvin Joaquin Mayora. Following an attack on a 61-year-old man, shots were fired, injuring bystanders. The incident raises concerns amidst Carnival celebrations held under a State of Emergency.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival festivities were overshadowed by a tragic shooting incident that resulted in one fatality and four injuries, including a United States citizen. The deceased, identified as Irvin Joaquin Mayora, was 30 years old and originally from Venezuela. The other victims included local residents—a 66-year-old male from Diego Martin, a 25-year-old male from St James, a 29-year-old female from Maraval, and a 65-year-old female from Maryland, USA.

Initial reports indicate that a 61-year-old man from Carapichaima was attacked while walking on the Western Main Road. Fearing for his life, he drew a firearm and fired at the assailant, unintentionally striking four bystanders. Mayora succumbed to his injuries shortly after fleeing the scene. The assailant did not attempt to evade capture and was subsequently detained by security personnel who turned him over to responding officers. His firearm was confiscated by authorities.

The injured parties were transported to St James District Hospital for treatment. The 25-year-old man, who sustained a head injury, was later transferred to the Port of Spain General Hospital, where his condition has been deemed serious. The remaining three victims are reportedly stable. Law enforcement officials led by Senior Superintendent Williams, along with other senior officers, were present at the shooting site, where they recovered eleven spent 9mm shells.

While police have not definitively confirmed whether Mayora was the assailant, there is a strong suspicion concerning his involvement. Additionally, it has not been verified if the 61-year-old individual possesses a licensed firearm, as inquiries are ongoing, led by WPC Clarke. This incident transpired shortly after a confidence walk by Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds and acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin, who had commended both the police and the community for maintaining a safe Carnival.

The nation remains under a State of Emergency enacted on December 29, 2024, which enhances the powers of law enforcement but does not currently impose a curfew. Further updates on this incident are anticipated in an upcoming press briefing.

The Carnival celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago were marred by a tragic shooting that resulted in one death and several injuries, highlighting ongoing safety concerns. With the police continuing their investigations, the community remains on alert despite previously reported successes in maintaining safety during the festivities. The State of Emergency remains in place, underscoring the challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring public safety.

Original Source: cayman.loopnews.com