In a significant breakthrough for Saint Lucian law enforcement, authorities have successfully captured and charged a second individual in connection with the 2024 fatal shooting of 13-year-old Melchizedek Gilbert Tixcy. The development concludes an intensive nearly two-year international pursuit that spanned multiple Caribbean jurisdictions.
Merkyle Cooper, a 20-year-old resident of Desruisseaux, Micoud, now faces capital murder charges for his alleged involvement in the juvenile’s death. The teenage victim was tragically shot and killed at his Blanchard residence on July 31, 2024, sparking widespread community outrage and an extensive investigation.
According to Superintendent Stephen Victorin, overseeing the Southern Division, the initial phase of the investigation led to the prompt arrest of Makalay Simon, another Blanchard resident, on August 8, 2024. Simon was formally charged with murder and has remained in custody at the Bordelais Correctional Facility since his apprehension.
Cooper, however, managed to evade capture by fleeing Saint Lucia immediately following the incident. His prolonged escape ended recently when Dominican authorities arrested him on narcotics violations. Through coordinated inter-agency collaboration between Saint Lucian and Dominican law enforcement, Cooper was extradited and returned to Saint Lucia on January 22, 2026.
Following thorough interrogation and evidence review, prosecutors formally charged Cooper with murder on January 25, 2026. The suspect made his initial court appearance before the Second District Court on January 26, where he was ordered to remain in custody at the Bordelais Correctional Facility pending further judicial proceedings.
The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting both the challenges of cross-border law enforcement cooperation and the persistent issue of youth violence in the region. Authorities have expressed confidence that the judicial process will deliver appropriate justice for the victim and his family.