A 29-year-old man was shot dead in Southampton last night.

He has been identified by Police as Erin Lee Richardson, who lived with family members in Riviera Crescent, Southampton.

According to Detective Chief Inspector Nicholas Pedro, the shooting took place shortly before 10.45pm

At a press conference this afternoon, Det Ch Insp Pedro said first aid was administered at the scene and Mr Richarsdon was taken to King Edward Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Det Ch Insp Pedro added that Mr Richardson was outside his residence when his assailant shot at him multiple times. He ran into home but was unable to escape the gunfire.

Mr Richardson had been recently released from prison, having committed minor offences.

Det Ch Insp Pedro said officers were “extremely keen to speak with anyone that may have seen two males — one tall male on the rear of a motorcycle, and a shorter male rider of the bike — leaving Riviera Road in Southampton.”

The two men on the bike were in dark clothing and the motorcycle “had a quiet running engine.”

“Officers have collected significant forensic evidence from the scene and a forensic autopsy is due to be conducted on the victim.

“Mr Richardson was unmarried and had the rest of his life to look forward to. He leaves behind many family members to grieve his loss.

“We are now in the process of piecing together Mr. Richardson’s final movements and activity with a view to identifying the motivation for this senseless killing.

“I am appealing for anyone that saw this incident or can provide information that can assist in identifying and bringing the offender or offenders to justice, to contact detectives from the Serious Crime Unit.

“The Senior Investigating Officer for this matter is Detective Inspector Dave Greenidge.”

The Serious Crime Unit can be contacted on 247-1739 and 247-1185 or on the confidential and independent CRIMESTOPPERS hotline 800-8477 (TIPS).

Governor George Fergusson issued a statement early this morning.

“I am horrified and deeply saddened by the murder of a young man in Southampton last night. I feel for the devastation which his family and friends will be suffering,” said Mr Fergusson.

“Everyone was painfully aware that the lull in gun murders, while welcome, might not be permanent. But I urge the community to work together to discourage young people from getting involved in violence.

“And, please, anyone with information about this tragedy should contribute by passing it to the Police or the confidential Crimestoppers line.”

Later Premier Craig Cannonier added: “I was deeply shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the shooting death of the young man last night in Southampton.

“The violent loss of life is always tragic, but even more so when it is a young life.

“I know that the police are working feverishly to get a clearer understanding of what took place and that the details will be forthcoming. In the meanwhile, I urge my fellow Bermudians to offer a prayer and to show support to the family and friends of the deceased as they face the enormity of this tragic event.”