Jaquan Thomas, 29, was shot and killed Sunday morning outside a residential area in Little Apple Bay, Police Information Officer Diane Drayton stated on Sunday.

Police responding to the scene found Mr. Thomas unresponsive, and he was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Ms. Drayton.

Traffic was temporarily diverted around the area so the crime scene could be preserved, she stated.

“Detectives with the Major Crime Team are leading investigations into this murder,” Ms. Drayton added. “Persons with information or witnesses to the murder are asked to

contact the unit directly at 368-5682 or the Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.”

This murder, the first of the year, comes shortly after Police Commissioner Mark Collins said violent offences are on the rise even though overall crime rates are falling.

Nine homicides were reported between September 2020 and May 2021, Mr. Collins reportedly told the Standing Finance Committee late last year.

The Sunday shooting was the territory’s first alleged murder since Nickail Chambers received fatal stab wounds in an altercation at Her Majesty’s Prison last May.

Police investigations into the killings have led to 20 suspects being charged with offences including murder, attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of a firearm, robbery, assisting offenders, and breach of trust, Mr. Collins reportedly said.