A shooting in New Development, Soufriere has left one man dead and another fighting for his life, as the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) ramps up operations in the area with multiple arrests and ammunition seizures.
Police say the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, when officers attached to the Soufriere Police Station responded to reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, they discovered two men suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Both were initially treated by the Saint Lucia Fire Service and transported to the Soufriere Hospital before being transferred to St. Jude Hospital and the Owen King European Hospital (OKEU) for advanced medical care.
Authorities later confirmed that one of the victims, 38-year-old Clayus Joseph, also known as “Gramoxone” of Fond Benier, succumbed to his injuries. The second victim remains in critical condition. Two individuals are currently assisting police with investigations, while a post mortem examination is scheduled.
The homicide comes amid heightened police activity in Soufriere, particularly in Palmiste and New Development. In a coordinated operation conducted on Thursday, February 5, 2026, multiple units of the RSLPF including the Gangs, Narcotics, Firearms and Gangs Unit, Special Operations Team, Special Services Unit, Tactical Response Unit, and officers from the Soufriere Police Station executed nine search warrants across the communities.
During those operations, officers recovered five rounds of 9mm ammunition and five high-powered .223 rounds. Ten suspects were arrested in connection with the operation, signaling what police describe as a firm and ongoing effort to disrupt criminal networks.
The RSLPF has reiterated its commitment to pursuing individuals involved in criminal activity, emphasizing that all available resources will be deployed to restore citizen safety and bring offenders to justice.
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Major Crimes Unit at 456-3754 or the Soufriere Police Station at 456-3620. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the Crime Hotline by dialing 555 or through the RSLPF Crime Hotline mobile application.
