The Police are treating the deaths of two St. David’s men as a case of double murder.

In a statement to the media this afternoon, Detective Chief Inspector Antoine Daniels of the Serious Crime Unit said: “The Bermuda Police Service can now confirm that the deaths of 57 year old Maxwell Gordon Brangman and 53 year old Frederick Livingstone Gilbert, both residents of St. David’s, were not caused by fire or drowning.

“About 5.30 a.m. on Sunday the lifeless body of Maxwell Brangman was found inside a small building on Burcher’s Point in St. David’s, after a fire was extinguished by Bermuda Fire Service personnel. An autopsy examination has now been conducted by a forensic pathologist and his findings are that death resulted from a number of wounds to his head and body, before he was set fire to.

“About 8.45 a.m. Monday, the body of 53-year-old Frederick Livingstone Gilbert was found in the waters at Great Bay in St. David’s. An autopsy examination has also now been conducted by a forensic pathologist and his findings are that death resulted from multiple wounds to his body, before he was immersed in water.

“The Bermuda Police Service again extends our sincere condolences to the family and friends of both Mr. Brangman and Mr. Gilbert.”

Mr. Daniels is heading the investigation, and is being closely assisted by second in command Detective Inspector Jerome Laws, along with a team of 20 officers.

“Overseas forensic experts are continuously being consulted for advice regarding the crime scene in addition to other critical aspects of this murder investigation,” he said.

“Police wish to make a number of specific appeals for assistance which the investigation team believes will be crucial in resolving these violent and unnecessary acts.

“Police wish to speak with any persons that were in attendance at two separate parties, at liquor licensed premises in the St. George’s area on Saturday night or the early hours of Sunday morning.

“Police are also interested in speaking with all persons who were in or around the Great Bay Road, St. David’s area on Saturday night / Sunday morning, and especially on the public dock near the post office.

“In addition we are interested in any sightings of motorcycles in the St. David’s area between midnight and 5.30am Sunday morning, stopping in the area of the above mentioned public dock or any other vehicles that you believe may assist Police with their investigations.

“Police are also appealing to anyone who may have seen or spoken with the two victims within recent weeks to contact the Serious Crime Unit at telephone number 299-4315, or the confidential Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1 800-623-8477.”

l For more details from the Police, and reaction to the latest developments, see tomorrow’s edition of The Royal Gazette.