A Westridge community was plunged into grief yesterday evening following the tragic discovery of 61-year-old Arnoldi Simms, who was found deceased in his T Rose Circle residence with a cord around his neck in what authorities are investigating as an apparent suicide.
Police were alerted to the scene shortly after 12:20 pm, where responding officers encountered an emotional gathering of distraught relatives outside the property. Superintendent Sheria King confirmed that the preliminary investigation suggests the victim, described as being in his early 60s, was found hanging from a manhole within the residence.
The scene grew increasingly heartrending as family members, including what appeared to be Mr. Simms’ sister, were heard crying out in anguish. ‘Why did he do this? Why did he do this?’ she repeatedly exclaimed. The tragedy was compounded by the coincidence of the victim’s daughter celebrating her birthday on the same day, with reports indicating she became so overwhelmed with emotion that she required physical assistance to be carried away from the scene.
Those close to the deceased described Mr. Simms as a characteristically jovial individual, making his sudden passing particularly shocking to the community. While specific details regarding his personal struggles remain private, sources indicated he had recently sought medical attention for unspecified health concerns.
In response to the incident, Superintendent King issued a urgent public appeal: ‘We want to remind the public, if you’re going through a hard time, if you’re struggling, if you’re depressed, reach out to a trusted individual so that you can get help. Family members, I urge you to check on your relatives regularly.’
The authorities highlighted available support resources, including the Suicide Crisis Centre which can be reached at 322-2763. According to records maintained by The Tribune, this tragic event represents the fourteenth confirmed suicide in The Bahamas this year, following another case in October involving a man in his early thirties found under similar circumstances.