TCI’s first murder and Police following strong leads after 19-year-old man dies from gunshot wounds

#Providenciales, April 9, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – Police are following strong leads and this could mean an announcement of arrests soon in the first murder for 2019. 

April 8, 2019 marked the loss of yet another young man during a time when the country is reeling at reports of tragedies befalling young males in particular.

The Police statement issued this morning explained, that “the deceased received two gunshot wounds and was transported to hospital via a private car where he later succumbed to his injuries.”

It was a call to 911 at 12:23 a.m. which triggered officers’ investigation, described by the Police Commissioner, James Smith as an active investigation still in need of information and which can come anonymously with a call to Crime Stoppers, 1-800-8477.

Magnetic Media ventured into Kew Town today, we wanted to observe the scene where the shooting is said to have taken place, near a corner store in the community.  Instead, we found that there were friends of the victim, gathered and mourning his loss, quietly.  Some of them shared memories of their fallen friend. 

We were told Obed Dupree was a hard-working young man who passed through Oseta Jolly Primary and Clement Howell High schools; he was humble, not a trouble-maker, one who walked away from even the most aggressive confrontations and he was doing what is the popular thing on a Sunday night in Provo; hanging out at an airport road bar.

Young Mr. Dupree had two jobs, we were told; at the Seven Stars and Coco Bistro. 

He is born and raised in Turks and Caicos, though his parents originate from Haiti. 

A former teacher of Obed shared that his mother was devoted to her son.

Obed did not die at the scene; he fought to survive but around 7 a.m., roughly seven hours after being shot the 19-year old was gone.

The man was said to be walking when he was shot at point blank range.  Many rumors are circulating about Obed Dupree’s attackers and that police already have suspects in custody. 

Police have declined to comment on those rumors and have promised an update in the case tonight.

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