A 26-year-old Vincentian national is fighting for his life following a shooting incident in the Potters community on Thursday night.
Jerome John was rushed to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) in a private vehicle after sustaining gunshot wounds during what appeared to be a targeted attack.
According to medical officials, the victim suffered a gunshot wound to his back with the bullet lodging near his chest. He also sustained a grazing wound to his right eyebrow.
Hospital sources confirmed that the victim was immediately taken to the Emergency Room’s Trauma Unit where he received urgent medical attention before being transferred to the Operating Theatre for emergency surgery. His condition was described as critical.
Police investigations revealed that the incident occurred around 9:06 pm in the vicinity of the Potters Registration Centre. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a small black vehicle circling the area shortly before the shooting.
According to witness statements, two armed assailants exited the vehicle and opened fire on a group of men who were socializing in the area. The suspects were described as slimly-built males of dark complexion. One suspect reportedly wore white shorts and a dark shirt, while the other was dressed in dark shorts and a dark shirt.
After the shooting, the assailants fled the scene in the same vehicle.
The area was canvassed, however investigators were unable to recover any spent shells at the scene.
Police are investigating the matter and are appealing to the public for any information that might assist in identifying the suspects or the vehicle used in the attack.
John’s family has been notified and they are receiving support while he remains under medical care.
