Bahamas News
Woman dies, another loses legs in Exuma boating accident, Bahamas Tourism says investigation on
#Exuma, The Bahamas – July 3, 2018 – The report of an American woman’s death in waters of the Exuma Cays is another heart-breaking visitor experience in The Bahamas as ironically guests were on their way to one of the most heart-thrilling adventures in the country; they were headed to see the famous Swimming Pigs.
The party of 10 guests and two Bahamians were horribly thrown off course by an explosion on board the 4Cs Excursion’s tour boat. 
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation (BMOTA) issued a statement on Monday saying, “….deeply saddened by yesterday’s tour boat incident in Exuma. We pray for the family of the passenger who succumbed to her injuries, and offer our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends as they mourn her loss. Our prayers are also with all the other passengers who were aboard as they recover.”
The American woman reportedly jumped from the boat, a report to Magnetic Media is that her legs were severely cut in the propellers of the vessel.
Member of Parliament for Exuma, Chester Cooper issued a statement on Sunday; mere hours after the mishap.
“Two other people who were on board, both Americans at last report, have been airlifted to the Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau. They are in extremely critical condition. Two more people who were on board, one American and one Bahamian, are being airlifted to Nassau for treatment…”
Mr. Cooper added that the remaining six Americans were preparing for medical evacuation to Florida with the help of the U.S. Coast Guard. It was explained that the others who were on board the boat do not have serious injuries; Mr. Cooper was also thankful in his media statement.
“My thanks to the Minister of Health, Dr. Duane Sands for his tireless efforts today. Thanks to the dedicated medical staff in Exuma, Nassau and Florida. This is a sad day for Exuma and a sad day for our American friends. We are saddened and our hearts are hurting, but we will get through this together.” 
Bahamas Tourism explained, “The Ministry of Tourism immediately sought to lend assistance to those affected and continues to work on the ground to provide emotional support and to help facilitate any needed arrangements. The Exuma tourism team and the Ministry’s Visitor Relations Unit (VRU) have been working to comfort and care for those on the boat, their families and friends. This team works directly with visitors as a liaison with local authorities, health organizations, pastoral care and more. In this, the Ministry and VRU are coordinating with the Ministry of Health to provide as much relief as possible to these visitors during this difficult time.”
There were also kudos for the Royal Bahamas Police and the U.S. Coast Guard.
As for who is investigating the tragedy which happened around 10 a.m. on Sunday July 1, 2018; “The RBPF, Bahamas Maritime Authority and Bahamas Port Department are investigating the incident and the BMOTA awaits their updates and findings,” said the Ministry of Tourism.
News of this tragedy has been picked up by major media organisations in the United States including the Washington Post, CNN and the NY Post which posted this, “American Stefanie Schaffer sustained life-threatening injuries and was in critical condition after a double amputation, her family said. 
Stefanie’s sister, Brooke, also suffered broken bones and internal injuries, while their mother and stepfather, Stacey and Paul Bender, suffered cuts and bruises.”
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
Bahamas News
Bahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday
Turks and Caicos, August 20, 2026 – The planned participation of the Bahama Brass Band in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ inaugural Constitutional Holiday celebrations on August 30 has sparked public debate over culture, heritage and the historical contributions of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad.
Organizers defended the invitation, saying the band’s inclusion is intended to highlight the deep historical ties between the two countries
and honor Turks and Caicos men who helped establish and develop the institution in Grand Bahama.
According to the organizers, the Bahama Brass Band began in 1955 in Pine Ridge, Freeport, with Turks and Caicos Islanders, including the late Deacon Reuben Hall Sr. of Middle Caicos and Jenkins Williams and Mervin Hendfield of North Caicos, among those who helped build its foundation. The band eventually grew to more than 50 men.
The organizers also pointed to the participation of Turks and Caicos men in The Bahamas’ Independence celebrations on July 10, 1973, arguing that their contributions became part of Bahamian history while maintaining strong connections to their homeland.
Supporters say bringing the band home represents an opportunity to honor those pioneers, showcase their regional influence and expose younger generations to an important part of Turks and Caicos history.
However, concerns raised publicly described the invitation as potentially disrespectful to local culture and heritage. Organizers acknowledged those concerns, apologizing to anyone who felt overlooked or offended, while maintaining that no disrespect was intended.
The committee said the event should ultimately unite rather than divide, presenting the band’s history as evidence of the reach and resilience of Turks and Caicos heritage.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bahamas Brass Band
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Dasani products, proudly sponsored the fifth annual, Caribbean Hoopfest.
The tournament brings together Bahamian high school basketball teams and visiting teams from the United States for a competitive
showcase at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium. Following its inaugural year at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym and last year’s event at Loyola Hall, the tournament returned to the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym this year.
During the weekend tournament, CBC kept athletes well hydrated with in-kind donations of Dasani Water, Powerade and Minute Maid Juices.
During the tournament’s final day, CBC provided additional support by offering Sprite No Sugar samples and inviting attendees to participate in its Spin the Wheel for a chance to win exciting prizes.
CBC was proud to support this incredible event, which provides young Bahamian athletes with valuable exposure to U.S. basketball scouts and coaches. This opportunity gives them the chance to earn scholarships, continue their education, and pursue their basketball careers in the United States.
Event organizer, Donald Francois shared his appreciation for CBC’s support.
“I want to express our sincere appreciation for Caribbean Bottling Company, who has been a tremendous supporter and an important part of the success of our program. Without CBC’s support, Caribbean Hoop Fest would not be able to function at the level it does today. And without Caribbean Hoop Fest, we would not have been able to provide the opportunities that have helped young Bahamian athletes gain exposure and pursue educational opportunities in the United States,” he expressed.
Since the program’s inception, several Bahamian student-athletes have been selected for scholarship opportunities, highlighting the
tournament’s growing impact on the development and advancement of young basketball talent in The Bahamas.
They are: Kelvin McDowells – Guard, Wodson Antoine – Power Forward, Justin Lafleur – Guard and Sean John – Guard.
After another successful edition of the tournament, Francois shared what he hopes he and Caribbean Bottling Company can achieve in the future.
“Our vision is bigger than basketball. We want to use the platform of Caribbean Hoop Fest to educate, develop, and create opportunities for young people and their families throughout the Bahamas. With individuals and organizations committed to our mission, we believe we can continue to grow the program and make an even greater impact,” Francois said.
For more details on community support, events and new products visit Caribbean Bottling Company at www.cbcbahamas.com today.
