39-year-old brutally murdered in Antigua, police captured suspect

The crime in Antigua and Barbuda increased during the festive season. Just a few days ago, a 39-year-old man was brutally murdered in the village of Willikies on the island of Antigua.

The deceased was identified as Jace Merrick, a 39-year-old resident of Willikies. The incident occurred about 8:15 pm on Tuesday, 28th December.

After thorough researches and raids, the Royal Police of Antigua and Barbuda managed to capture a 31-year-old resident of the same village. He is now assisting the police with detailed investigations.

"A 31yr old Willikies man is assisting the police with their investigations into the alleged murder of 39yr old Jace Merrick, also of Willikies," the Press-release by the Royal Police of Antigua and Barbuda added.

Police officials stated that both villagers were allegedly involved in an altercation which ended up in a struggle. It was reported that the alleged suspect armed himself with a sharp object, which he used to inflict a single stab wound to the upper back of Merrick.

Following the incident, a medical doctor was called on the scene and pronounced Jace Merrick dead. The police took custody of the dead body and sent it for autopsy, and the real reason behind the death could only be confirmed after the reports.

The family of the deceased Jace Merrick demanded justice, asking the police to take the captured man behind bars. However, the suspect is yet to be produced before the court. The charges are also not made clear by the police.

Many people went to social media and expressed their anguish on the rising homicides in Antigua and Barbuda. One such user named Vida Gilford wrote, "Too many senseless killings why can't human beings just walk away so sad, my greatest wish is for all of us to live with love," Another user named Estaleta Edwards wrote, "It is better to walk away from conflicts; this incident could have been avoided! Condolences to the family of the deceased rest in perpetual peace,"