In a tragic conclusion to 2025’s violent crime statistics, Dexter Griffith, a 53-year-old laborer from Isaac Avenue, Plaisance Park, became what authorities believe to be the year’s final homicide victim during a New Year’s Eve ambush in Marabella.
The fatal incident occurred approximately at 9 pm on December 31st, while Griffith was socializing with family members at the intersection of Charles Street and George Street. According to police reports, an unidentified vehicle abruptly stopped near the gathering, from which an armed assailant emerged.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that Griffith’s common-law wife, daughter, and another male companion immediately fled through a nearby pathway upon recognizing the imminent threat. During their escape, multiple gunshots echoed through the neighborhood.
Law enforcement personnel from the Marabella Police Station responded promptly to emergency calls. Upon arrival, officers discovered Griffith’s lifeless body at the scene. Official medical confirmation was provided by a District Medical Officer who subsequently pronounced death.
Forensic experts from the Crime Scene Investigation Unit conducted a thorough examination, recovering substantial ballistic evidence including seven discharged 9mm cartridge casings and one live round of the same caliber. The investigation remains ongoing with no established motive for the targeted killing at this preliminary stage.
The homicide adds to Trinidad and Tobago’s ongoing challenges with violent crime, particularly highlighting the persistent issue of firearm-related violence in community settings. Local authorities continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward with any information that might assist in identifying the perpetrators.