Crime
Tragic Shooting Death of Frantz Fleurimond Rocks Five Cays Community
Wilkie Arthur
Freelance Court Correspondent
#TurksandCaicos, May 31, 2024 – The tight-knit community of Five Cays was left reeling following the tragic shooting death of Frantz Fleurimond, a 34-year-old resident, on the night of Friday, May 24th, 2024. Exclusive insights from family members, friends, and neighbors shed light on the circumstances surrounding the untimely demise of Fleurimond, known affectionately as Frantz by those who knew him.
According to accounts from family members, including his outspoken father and mild-mannered stepmother, the harrowing incident unfolded around 10 pm. The father vividly recalled the terrifying moment when loud gunshots rang out, with one bullet piercing through their wooden home, which housed both the family and Frantz in separate sections.
This wasn’t the first brush with violence for Frantz.
Several years prior, he had endured a brutal assault in Blue Hills, leaving him with severe head injuries that required months of recuperation in Jamaica. Despite his resilience, Frantz’s mental health had been fragile ever since, with episodes of erratic behavior and struggles with substance abuse.
Described by many as a highly respected chef at prominent hotels across Providenciales, Frantz’s life took a dark turn following the traumatic incident. He returned to live with his parents after his marriage ended, grappling with mental illness and addiction.
Neighbors recounted hearing the fatal shots on the night of Frantz’s death, followed by a chilling silence. Rushing to investigate, they discovered Frantz’s lifeless body in his own home, prompting them to alert the authorities.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force confirmed the tragic incident, expressing condolences to Frantz’s grieving family. Superintendent Dean Holden of the Serious Crimes Unit assured the community that the investigation into the shooting were underway, emphasizing the urgency of finding justice for Frantz and his loved ones.
While details surrounding Frantz’s death remain murky, speculation swirls about a potential motive stemming from his troubled past and reported confrontations with others in the community. However, no official statements have been made regarding suspects or arrests in connection with the case.
As the Five Cays community grapples with shock and sorrow in the wake of Frantz Fleurimond’s untimely passing, loved ones remember him fondly for his culinary talents, kind spirit, and resilience in the face of adversity. As investigations continue, hopes remain high for answers and closure for those left mourning the loss of a cherished friend, family member, and community member.
Turks and Caicos, February 8, 2025 – The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force acknowledges the sentencing of convicted rapist ELVETHAN “ALVIN” HANDFIELD to life imprisonment following his guilty plea. Handfield was charged with the following offences: Two Counts of RAPE and Two Counts of USING AN OFFENSIVE WEAPON TO CAUSE FEAR.
The Supreme Court delivered the ruling yesterday (February 6), with Handfield, 47, of Glass Shack, Providenciales, being ineligible for parole until he has served 16 years. Should parole be granted, he will be registered as a sex offender for life.
Acting Superintendent Grantley Williams, Head of Serious Crime, Safeguarding, and Public Protection, stated: “Following an extensive investigation by our Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit, Handfield was charged after a report made by a female victim on April 20, 2024. The victim, after entering a jitney driven by Handfield on April 19, 2024, was taken to his residence in Glass Shack, where she was
subjected to sexual assault before being released the following day.
“This heinous act of violence, where Handfield posed as a jitney driver, lured, and assaulted the victim while threatening harm, is despicable. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force commend the victim’s bravery in coming forward, demonstrating immense courage in ensuring that this predator is brought to justice.
We recognize this is a difficult journey, and our Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit officers remain available to support the healing process.
We take this opportunity to urge any victims of sexual violence to come forward. Your reports are vital in removing dangerous offenders from our streets and ensuring the safety of our communities. Our commitment to justice remains unwavering, and we will continue to work tirelessly to protect and safeguard the communities.”
If you have been a victim or know anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault, please get in touch with the police without delay at the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit at 232- 6696 or the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) at -338-4013.
All calls will be treated with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Turks and Caicos, February 7, 2025 – A 20-year-old Dock Yard male pleaded guilty to four charges today (January 31) following a
robbery which occurred in 2024. JAMES SIMON is expected to be sentenced on April 03rd, 2025, having been convicted for the following offences:
- One Count Possession of Firearm
- One Count Possession of Ammunition
- One Count Robbery
- One Count using a Firearm in the Commission of a Serious Offence
Based on the evidence presented before the court, Mr. Simon was arrested on May 02, 2024, along South Dock Road, where he was found with an illegal firearm.
Acting Superintendent in charge of Crime, Safeguarding and Public Protection Grantley Williams said, “Given the prevalence of firearm-related incidents, the Force has successfully removed one more illegal firearm from our streets. I applaud my officers for their vigilance and
dedication to their duty. I urge the public to assist us by reporting illegal firearms—if you have any information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
Please contact the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, or you can also anonymously share information via the Crime Stoppers P3 app. Together, we can make the Turks and Caicos Islands safer.”
***MEDIA RELEASE***
Turks and Caicos, February 05th, 2025 – A 50-year-old male will appear before the Grand Turk Magistrate’s Court on February 17, 20225, charged with one count: SEXUAL
ASSAULT.
Officers of the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit charged STEPHEN LYN following a report of sexual touching by a 13-year-old female victim.
The incident allegedly occurred on September 24, 2024.
Mr. Lyn is currently on $5000. bail.
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