Deandrea Hamilton
Editor
Turks and Caicos, May 22, 2025 – Turks and Caicos Islands experienced an alarming spike in gun violence on Wednesday May 21, with five individuals shot in two separate incidents across different islands—marking an unprecedented day for the nation’s ongoing fight against violent crime.
According to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), four males were injured in a targeted shooting in the Kew Town area of Providenciales around 6:14 p.m. Police received multiple calls reporting gunshots near Betty Shop and surrounding areas. Emergency services rushed two victims to a medical facility, while police discovered a third at the scene and transported him by ambulance. A fourth man with a gunshot wound to the foot was later located in Pete Court. All four are currently hospitalized.
Earlier in the day, around noon, a separate firearm incident occurred in South Caicos, where a 71-year-old man was shot in the left thigh. He, too, is undergoing medical treatment.
In response to the violence, Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales suspended all visits, citing security concerns. Armed police officers were stationed at the hospital to prevent any further attempts on the lives of the wounded—believed to be victims of targeted attacks.
The incidents come just as the RTCIPF recently welcomed 40 tactical police officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Barbados to bolster national security.
Both shootings are under active investigation by the Serious Crime Unit, with forensic and tactical teams deployed. The RTCIPF is urging members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist their inquiries.
The violent episodes underscore growing concerns about public safety, even amid recent progress reported by the government in reducing overall crime.
PHOTO CAPTION:
ACTIVE CRIME SCENE IN KEW TOWN, PROVIDENCIALES. PHOTO BY EAGLE LEGAL NEWS MEDIA
