The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has confirmed that two people are in custody facing suspicion of murder, following the deadly attack on 35-year-old Sheldon Dias earlier this week. The incident unfolded just before midday on Friday, June 5, in the Mock Pond neighborhood of All Saints, where preliminary law enforcement inquiries confirm Dias became involved in a physical confrontation with the two accused individuals.
When first responders from the local police department arrived at the scene, they found Dias unresponsive at the back of a residential yard, with multiple wounds across his body. A licensed medical professional attended the location shortly after, and officially pronounced Dias dead at 1:45 p.m. local time.
Within hours of the incident, officers took a male suspect and a female suspect into custody on charges of murder-related suspicion. Both individuals are currently being held at a local police facility, where they are assisting lead investigators with ongoing inquiries into the death.
Senior leadership at the Royal Police Force has issued a formal statement of sympathy, extending heartfelt condolences to Dias’ family and loved ones as they navigate the grief of his unexpected, tragic passing. Investigations into the exact circumstances of the altercation and the events leading up to Dias’ death remain active and ongoing, law enforcement officials confirmed.
Local authorities are urging any member of the public who may have relevant information connected to the case that could advance the investigation to reach out directly to the department’s Serious Crimes Unit. Tips can be submitted via phone at 462-3913 or 462-3914, or anonymously through the regional Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).