标签： Bahamas

Devon Butler, a 29-year-old father of one, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident early Saturday morning, compounding the grief of a family already reeling from multiple tragedies this year. Butler, who had recently celebrated his birthday, was walking east on Robinson Road around 2am when he was struck by a dark-colored Acura. Moments later, a second vehicle ran over him. While the first driver stopped, the second fled the scene, leaving Butler fatally injured. His sister, Latoya Smith, described the incident as devastating, stating that the family is seeking answers and plans to meet with police. Butler had been working two jobs—at Cash N Go and Cacique—to provide for his six-year-old son and aspired to become a lawyer. Despite facing numerous hardships, he remained determined to build a stable life for his family. Butler was reportedly heading home from work when the accident occurred. A friend and roommate grew concerned when he failed to return, and a Superwash employee later informed the family that Butler had stopped there minutes earlier to arrange a ride. Smith learned of the accident hours later, initially dismissing an early-morning call until repeated attempts, including one from her sister, delivered the heartbreaking news. The family has endured a series of tragedies this year, including their mother’s debilitating injury in a February hit-and-run and their father’s death from illness in September. Smith described their upbringing as challenging but emphasized the love and care their father provided. She believes Butler’s death echoed a spiritual warning, recalling a recent conversation about their mother’s condition. Despite their mother’s absence during their childhood, Butler maintained a positive relationship with her. Smith fondly remembered her brother as a loving and caring individual who brought joy to their lives. His final message to her was an invitation to church on Sunday, a promise she now deeply regrets not fulfilling. As the family prepares for a painful Christmas without Butler, they reflect on his enduring love and the void his absence leaves.

Cuba Libre’s annual ‘Warm the Shacks’ initiative, a celebrated tradition supporting Junkanoo groups, this year paid tribute to two iconic leaders: Percy ‘Vola’ Francis of Saxons Superstars and Chris Justilien of Colours Entertainment. The recognition ceremony, held at Poseidon Sports Bar on East Bay Street, marked the launch of the 2025 campaign, which includes a generous donation of beverages to Junkanoo groups. A-category groups will receive one pallet (120 cases) of Cuba Libre, while B-category groups will receive half a pallet. The event was attended by representatives from prominent Junkanoo groups such as the Valley Boys, Roots, Fancy Dancers, Genesis, and others. Gavin Christie, a director at Cuba Libre, likened Junkanoo to ‘the Superbowl of The Bahamas,’ emphasizing the immense dedication and effort participants invest in creating their spectacular Bay Street performances. He reiterated the brand’s long-standing support for the cultural phenomenon and expressed hope that the donation would ease the challenges of the season for participants. Founding director Gary Christie introduced a new tradition of honoring Junkanoo icons annually, with one leader from an A-category group and one from a B-category group being recognized. This year, Mr. Francis and Mr. Justilien were each awarded $1,000 for their contributions. Percy Francis, often regarded as a Junkanoo monarch, has led the Saxons for over five decades, shaping it into one of the largest and most beloved groups. He expressed gratitude for the donation and paid homage to late legends like Winston ‘Gus’ Cooper, who helped define Junkanoo’s art and heritage. Chris Justilien, an assistant professor of music at the University of The Bahamas, was celebrated for his extensive contributions to music education and community development. Last year, Cuba Libre reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible drinking and discouraging underage consumption, urging Junkanoo leaders to ensure the beverages are used appropriately.

An 81-year-old man is currently hospitalized following a violent encounter with law enforcement during a police raid on a residence off West Bay Street. Officers from the anti-gang taskforce were executing a search warrant for drugs and firearms at a two-story home. Upon arrival, they informed a female occupant of the warrant, but she denied them entry. Forced to breach the door, officers announced their presence and proceeded to clear the premises. On the third floor, they encountered a male occupant who refused to open a door in the northern room. When police forced entry, the man allegedly fired multiple shots at the officers. In response, fearing for their safety, the officers returned fire, striking the suspect in the elbow and buttocks. Police reported recovering the man’s firearm and subduing him before emergency medical services treated him and transported him to the hospital. During a subsequent search of the man’s room, officers discovered a second firearm and additional ammunition in the presence of a 66-year-old female caretaker, who was also taken into custody.

The Bahamas government has eliminated the degree requirement that previously hindered promotions within the Department of Corrections, a move that has already facilitated over 400 promotions, with an additional 400 anticipated. National Security Minister Wayne Munroe highlighted that this policy shift has addressed a years-long backlog and filled critical supervisory roles that were left vacant despite officers’ decades of service. Speaking at the BDOCS Long Service and Good Conduct Awards Ceremony at Government House, Munroe emphasized that the degree mandate was unique to the corrections department, unlike other law enforcement agencies such as the Defence Force or Police Force. He criticized the former rule, stating that it unfairly stalled experienced officers who lacked formal academic credentials, even if they had over 15 years of service. The reforms, which began with over 1,000 personnel, introduced a new career path that values both qualifications and experience, allowing officers to advance based on their service time and performance. Munroe noted that the changes have already resulted in promotions across all ranks and the confirmation of trainees to full correctional officer status. He also mentioned that similar promotion evaluations are ongoing in other agencies under the Ministry of National Security.

A 39-year-old Mexican man, Brigido Munoz, accused of murdering 20-year-old South African woman Paige Bell on a super yacht in Eleuthera, has been informed that he will enter a plea before the Supreme Court in December. Munoz, from Monterrey, Mexico, signed his voluntary bill of indictment on a murder charge before Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley. The case has been transferred to Justice Guillimina Archer Minns, with the next court appearance scheduled for December 12. Munoz was also served a notice of alibi. The tragic incident occurred on July 3 aboard a yacht docked in Harbour Island, Eleuthera. Authorities discovered Bell’s body with visible injuries in the engine room after 1 pm that day. Munoz, who allegedly attempted suicide, sustained serious injuries to his arms and was treated at a local clinic. Both Munoz and Bell were crew members on the vessel. Bell’s parents, John and Michelle, expressed their profound grief, stating that their daughter’s murder ‘stole their world.’ Inspector Deon Barr is prosecuting the case.