The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched an urgent manhunt for a group of male suspects connected to a violent early-morning attack and robbery that left two visiting vessel crew members hospitalized and injured. The violent incident unfolded at approximately 1:20 a.m. local time on Thursday, June 4, along Popeshead Street, a central thoroughfare located near the popular Heritage Quay cruise ship dock where the two victims were based.
Preliminary investigative updates from the police’s Office of Strategic Communications outline that the two crew members were returning to their berthed vessel on foot when they were suddenly ambushed by the group of unidentified attackers. Both men sustained multiple wounds in the unprovoked assault. The first victim suffered cuts and bruises to the face and head, and received emergency medical care directly at the scene of the attack. The second victim was far more seriously injured, with deep lacerations across his head and arm, and was urgently transferred to the main public care facility, Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, for ongoing treatment. As of the latest police update, the second victim remains in serious but stable condition, with medical teams monitoring his progress closely.
In addition to the physical harm inflicted on the two crew members, the attackers stole a backpack belonging to the victims that contained critical personal identification documents as well as a small sum of cash.
Senior police administration has publicly condemned the unprovoked, senseless act of violence, emphasizing the force’s unwavering commitment to protecting both local residents and the international visitors that drive Antigua and Barbuda’s key tourism economy. Law enforcement officials are now appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed the attack, or hold any information that could help identify and locate the suspects, to come forward and assist with the investigation. Tipsters can reach the local Criminal Investigations Department directly at 462-3913 or 462-3914, or submit anonymous information via the independent Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).