Two Persons in Custody Following Fatal Shooting of Freeman’s Village Shopkeeper

Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers says investigators are pursuing every available lead into Thursday morning’s fatal shooting in Freeman’s Village, confirming that two persons of interest are currently in police custody.

The update was provided during a police press briefing convened following the killing of 60-year-old businessman Eleazer “Fresshy” Francis, who was shot at the supermarket he owned along the Freeman’s Village Main Road.

According to the top cop, the incident occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m. Preliminary investigations indicate that two men exited a silver motor vehicle and entered the business establishment. Police believe a confrontation ensued inside the shop, during which Francis was shot.

He succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Commissioner Jeffers described the killing as deeply concerning, noting that the Police Administration is troubled by the recent spate of gun-related crimes in Antigua and Barbuda.

He assured the public that the investigation has been given the highest priority and that detectives are working tirelessly to identify and apprehend everyone involved.

“We will pursue every available lead until those responsible are brought to justice,” the Commissioner said.

Jeffers also confirmed that one person of interest is assisting police with their investigations, while officers continue efforts to locate others who may have been involved.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist the investigation to contact the Criminal Investigations Department or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

The investigation into the country’s latest homicide remains ongoing.