In the quiet neighborhood of Bayville, a serene evening turned into a nightmare for Tori Bascombe and her family. On Monday night, her partner of 12 years, Akil Blacks Hinds, was fatally shot just outside their home on Sandbox Avenue. The incident occurred moments after they had tucked their daughter, A’niyah, into bed, shattering their peaceful routine and leaving the family in profound grief.
Bascombe, struggling to hold back tears, recounted the harrowing moments when her life changed forever. She described how Hinds was lying on the bonnet of their car when a masked gunman approached around 10:10 p.m. and fired multiple shots. Hinds was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Bascombe vehemently denied rumors of a shootout, asserting that Hinds was not involved in any violent altercation. She speculated that the incident might have been a robbery, as Hinds’ chain was missing after the attack.
Hinds, a 36-year-old bridgeman at Chamberlain Bridge, was known for his calm and easy-going demeanor. Bascombe painted a picture of a devoted family man who lived for his partner and daughter. ‘He eat, sleep, and breathe me and he daughter,’ she said, emphasizing their inseparable bond. The couple had been planning a staycation for A’niyah’s upcoming eighth birthday, but now Bascombe faces the heartbreaking task of celebrating without Hinds.
The community of Bayville, though known for its history of violence, had been relatively peaceful in recent times. However, the shooting has left residents, including Bascombe, feeling uneasy and fearful. ‘I would say yes [I’m scared],’ she admitted, describing her inability to sleep or relax since the incident. She believes Hinds may have been targeted but cannot fathom why anyone would want to harm him, given his peaceful nature and spiritual outlook on life.
Hinds was an avid football enthusiast who enjoyed watching matches on weekends and had been looking forward to the Prime Minister’s Cup fixtures. His sudden death has left a void not only in his family but also in the community, where he was well-loved and respected. As Bascombe and her daughter navigate this unimaginable loss, they are left grappling with questions and a future forever altered by tragedy.