Gang warfare caused Robin Hood shootings, say Police
Gang infighting caused a deadly shooting in a Hamilton pub that left two men dead and two others injured, police said yesterday.
Police said that more than 20 round of ammunition were fired during Tuesday’s attack at the Robin Hood Pub on Richmond Road, where one victim was celebrating his birthday.
The victims were named as Micah Davis, 22, who was celebrating his birthday, and Ayinde Eve, 27.
Two others were shot, including an off-duty police officer who was treated and released from King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for injuries to his hand.
The fourth victim – who was related to one of the deceased – remains in hospital.
Police also confirmed that no arrests had been made in connection to the fatal shooting.
Nick Pedro, Acting Assistant Commissioner said: “There can be no doubt that this was a gang-related shooting.
“This involves the Parkside gang that has splintered into factions and we know who they are.
“We are committing significant resources to ensure we bring not only the shooters but the people who ordered the shootings to justice.”
Mr Pedro confirmed that the “brazen gun attack” was the first double murder since January 23, 2013 when Haile Outerbridge and Ricco Furbert were fatally shot at Belvin's Variety store on Happy Valley Road.
He said there were concerns that the shooting would lead to further escalation of violence and urged the public to remain calm.
Mr Pedro said: “Emotions will naturally be running high. People will naturally want some form of justice.
“What we are saying is that justice must come from the justice system. People cannot be taking justice in their own hands – let us do our job.
“Bring information to us and let us bring the perpetrators to justice.”
Two gunmen on a bike launched the attack at about 6pm.
Both of the men were described as wearing dark pants and black helmets, with the passenger wearing a light top and the rider a dark top.
Detective Chief Inspector Peter Stableford of the Serious Crime Division, who is leading the investigation, said the passenger went into the club and fired a number of rounds at patrons inside.
Mr Eve ran from the premise and into a car park behind the pub, but was shot multiple times by the rider.
Mr Stableford said: “Both gunman then left and are believed to have travelled out of the city via Bandroom Lane on to The Glebe Road shortly after 6pm.
“The investigation at this stage is that it is a gang-related attack, which has been carefully planned and carried out. Over 20 rounds of ammunition were used and discharged last night.”
Police said the perpetrators would likely have come to the area well in advance of the attack.
They appealed for anyone from the area with a security or dashboard camera to check for any footage between 5pm and 7pm.
Acting Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons said the fatal shooting was a “senseless, unacceptable violent act” in a restaurant where families would have been enjoying dinner.
Mr Simons said: “While this is a gang-related incident, this affects all of us.”
He said that the public would see an increased police presence on the streets as officers worked to deter reprisal attacks.
Mr Simons added: “Your Bermuda Police Service will continue to do everything within its lawful powers to bring justice to those responsible for this unacceptable crime in our island home.
“The community has a vital role to play. I’m asking the community to stand up and be a part of the solution.
“This is not who we are, this is not what we want to be known for, this is not the way of life we want for ourselves or for our children.”
He urged the public to help police with their investigation and appealed for those who were at the Robin Hood to come forward with whatever they know.
Mr Simons said: “Two families today are mourning the loss of loved ones. One of those victims was actually celebrating his birthday when his life was taken away in the most cruel manner.
“If you know something say something. You would want someone to come forward if it was your loved one you were grieving today.”
Renee Ming, the Minister of National Security, condemned the shooting and said her thoughts and prayers were with the families who had lost loved ones.
Ms Ming said: “The callous and senseless acts of violence which occurred last night have no place in our society.
“These heinous acts put so many people in harm’s way. If anyone knows anything, they must say something.
“The perpetrators of this crime must be brought to justice, and the only way to do so is to assist the police with their investigation.”
She urged anyone with information to call police at 211 or the confidential Crimestoppers hotline at 800-8477.
* The Bermuda Police Service has scotched rumours of a shooting yesterday morning near West Pembroke School.
A spokeswoman said: “The police are aware of messages being circulated on social media, suggesting there was a shooting today in the area of the West Pembroke School. We can confirm that this information is false.
“We are urging members of the public to stop forwarding these messages, as they cause unnecessary panic within the community.”