Saint Lucia’s violent crime tally for the new year has risen with police confirming the island nation’s third homicide of 2026. The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Soufrière resident Leeval Albert, who sustained fatal stab wounds during a violent confrontation in the capital city of Castries.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Luke Defreitas disclosed these developments during the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s monthly media briefing. According to preliminary investigations, the altercation occurred earlier today, though investigators are still working to pinpoint the exact location where the stabbing transpired.
Following the attack, Albert managed to travel to the Jeremie Street Plaza commercial area before collapsing from his injuries. Emergency services were promptly alerted and transported the critically wounded man to a medical facility. Despite intensive resuscitation efforts by medical personnel, Albert was subsequently pronounced dead.
ACP Defreitas noted that while first responders initially encountered the victim near the DAX vicinity on Victoria Street, forensic teams are still reconstructing the sequence of events leading to the fatal assault. The police spokesperson declined to provide additional information regarding potential suspects or motives, confirming that no arrests have been made in connection with the incident at this preliminary stage of investigation.
The homicide marks continued challenges for Saint Lucian authorities addressing violent crime, with two previous homicides already recorded within the first weeks of 2026. Police have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward as investigations continue.