Premier calls for 'restraint' following barber shop shooting
Premier Paula Cox today called for "calm and restraint" following the shooting death of a man at a Pembroke barber shop.Her comments came the day after a 31-year-old was shot dead at Jason's Barber Shop on North Shore Road.Police have yet to name the victim.Said Ms Cox: "This tragedy can only mean sorrow for another family in this community and our first thoughts must be for them. I encourage calm and restraint in the wake of this mindless act and urge the community to unite in its support of the family, the police and each other."Her concerns were echoed by National Security Minister Wayne Perinchief."We have seen in these last few months how important witnesses and community involvement can be to solving crime. I urge anyone with information that might assist the police investigation to come forward," he said.Both expressed their condolences to the victim's family.Added Ms Cox: "However and wherever we worship [today], let us all spare a moment to remember those affected by this tragedy and encourage those who can assist the police to do so."Opposition Leader Craig Cannonier also urged anyone with information to contact police."To the family and loved ones of the victim, we extend our deepest condolences, and to the people who witnessed this appalling act we extend our sympathy and support. Our prayers are with you. The police will need all the help they can get to solve this crime, and so I urge anyone with information to step forward to help out."Officers responded to gunshots at the popular barbershop around 5.20pm yesterday.A Police spokesman today said officers are interested in speaking with anyone who was in the vicinity of the barber shop between 5.05pm and 5.20pm yesterday."In particular, detectives would like to speak with anyone that may have seen two males on a motorcycle fleeing the area of Jason’s Barber Shop during this time frame."Assistant Commissioner of Police David Mirfield issued a statement yesterday, asking for witnesses to come forward."It appears that two men on a motorcycle wearing full-face helmets arrived at the location. One of the suspects got off the motorcycle and shot the victim, a 31-year-old man, before both men escaped on the motorcycle heading West."Mr Mirfield continued: "The scene has been forensically examined and will remain cordoned off until further notice as detectives continue the investigation into this fatal shooting."Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Chief Inspector Nicholas Pedro at the Serious Crime Unit on 247-1340, or telephone the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline on 800-8477.