Authorities from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda have confirmed that a 32-year-old local man has been taken into custody and formally charged with a series of serious firearm-related violations connected to a violent incident on a major public highway.
In an official media statement published Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the force’s Office of Strategic Communications identified the defendant as Coteen Francis, a resident of Grays Farm. He faces four separate charges before the local judicial system: shooting with intent to commit murder, discharging a loaded firearm in a public area, illegal possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
The legal proceedings stem from an altercation that unfolded shortly after 1 a.m. on Sunday, April 26, along the Queen Elizabeth Highway, one of the territory’s key thoroughfares. Law enforcement officials confirmed that Francis is scheduled to make his first court appearance at the next available judicial sitting.
As the investigation remains ongoing, the Antigua and Barbuda Royal Police Force is issuing a public appeal for any witnesses or community members with relevant information about the April 26 incident to come forward. Tipsters can reach the Criminal Investigations Department directly at 462-3913, or submit anonymous information through the independent Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477). The department has reiterated that all details shared by members of the public will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality to protect the identity and safety of contributors.