Police said the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Shem Peter aka Papa last night is St. Lucia’s 22nd homicide so far this year and is appealing for help in solving this latest killing.
“Anyone with information pertaining to this homicide should contact the Major Crimes Unit at 456-3754,” the police said in a press release.
The police also gave an account of the shooting incident in the release.
“At about 9 pm on Thursday, September 5, 2013, officers attached to the Criminal Investigations Department were apprised of gunshots being fired at Blackstars, Morne Dudon, Castries and immediately proceeded to the scene.
“On arrival, they received information that an unknown individual fired multiple shots in the direction of 27-year-old Shem Peter, also known as Papa of Blackstars, Morne Dudon, hitting several times about the body. At the time of the incident Shem Peter was seated on a step in the vicinity of his home.”
Police said no one has been arrested for the incident and a post mortem examination is scheduled for a later date.
Persons in the area told St. Lucia News Online that Peter was seen being chased by a man with a long firearm.
Sources say police fear that this homicide may trigger a gang war or retaliation.
Meanwhile, Peter is no stranger to the law. He has been arrested for numerous crimes including escaping lawful custody, robbery of a tourist and assault.
Peter was reportedly one of the persons on a list in 2010-2011 targeting persons deemed to be notorious criminals in St. Lucia.
Shem Peter
In February 2011, Peter and another man, Dane Augustin aka Cybog of Morne Du Don were shot and injured during a police operation in Wilton’s Yard, popularly known as “Grave yard”.
During the operation, several live rounds of ammunition and spent shells, drugs and ski masks were reportedly found in the area by the police.
At the time of the incident, police said in a news release: “The operation known as ‘Operation Restore Confidence will be conducted throughout the island and the objective is to identify the criminal elements and confiscate illegal weapons, drugs and items suspected of having been unlawfully obtained.”
The area where Shem Peter was gunned down.