MP Anthony Smith Jr
Member of Parliament for All Saints West, Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., has paid tribute to Freeman’s Village shopkeeper Eleazer “Fresshy” Francis following his fatal shooting, describing him as a pillar of the community whose impact extended far beyond his business.
In a statement issued after the incident, Smith said he was deeply saddened by Francis’ death and extended condolences to his family, friends, loved ones, and the wider Freeman’s Village community.
“Fresshy was more than a hardworking business owner. He was a cherished community icon whose shop stood as a symbol of kindness, convenience, and opportunity,” Smith said.
According to the MP, Francis’ business was more than just a place to purchase goods. He said it was a welcoming space where residents regularly experienced generosity, compassion, and a strong sense of community.
“His dedication and service left a lasting impact on countless lives,” Smith added.
The parliamentarian acknowledged the pain being felt throughout Freeman’s Village, saying the loss has been shared across the entire All Saints West constituency.
“Today, we mourn together. Freemans Village is hurting, and indeed, the entire All Saints West community shares in this grief. We have lost someone whose contributions to our community can never be replaced,” he said.
Smith also pledged his support to the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda as officers continue investigating the fatal shooting.
“Our community deserves answers, and Eleazer and his family deserve justice,” he said, expressing confidence that investigators would work diligently to identify those responsible for what he described as a senseless act.
He urged residents to remain united during the difficult period and to continue supporting one another while keeping Francis’ family in their prayers.
The tribute comes as police continue investigations into the fatal shooting in Freeman’s Village.
Earlier reports indicated that officers were responding to a shooting in the community in which one person was killed. Authorities have not yet released further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident, and no arrests have been announced.
Police are expected to provide additional information as their investigation continues.
These situations are always very sad. I dont know the man who was shot but i have alot of questions. One of them is what kind of money you expect to recieve when you come in a shop that early? Something not making sence to be simply because early morning most shops just sell bread. I would think if you wanna robbbbb someone you come later in the day. Unlessssss if it wasnt a robbery
I see a picture of the guy. This is so sad! You’re not even safe in your only property rn. I’m tired of hearing these nonesense killing. Can we get some peace in this country? Can people feel safe inside their own place again?
I don’t know the village, I don’t know the man but I must say condolences. And as the previous comment, we should all come in solidarity to end these killings with no meanings. We need to feel safe in our country again, we need to feel safe in the our homes and our properties again. We don’t only need to hear these ministers when someone dies. We need to hear them now, we need to see actions. Higher penalties and more policing.