CASTRIES, St Lucia (April 28, 2025) — Jacmel Man Justin Raphael Shot Dead in a Marigot shooting Sunday night, pushing St Lucia’s homicide tally to 21 for the year amid growing concerns over illegal firearms and public safety.
Police said officers from the Marigot Police Station responded to reports of a shooting in Marigot around 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 27. Upon arrival, they discovered an unresponsive male at the scene with apparent gunshot wounds. A medical practitioner pronounced the victim dead at the scene.
The deceased has been identified as Justin Raphael, a resident of Jacmel. His killing marks the latest in a series of violent incidents that continue to destabilize communities across the island.
Police investigation underway after Jacmel Man Justin Raphael Shot Dead
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) had recently reported a decline in homicides for 2025, stating that 18 had been recorded prior to Raphael’s death — a figure that has been disputed. The RSLPF recently emphasized this decline in a public update. His murder, however, has pushed the national homicide tally to 21. The uptick underscores the persistent challenge authorities face in curbing gun-related violence despite intensified efforts to remove illegal firearms from the streets.
In response to the latest killing, the RSLPF has reiterated its call for public cooperation in solving violent crimes. Individuals with information about the Marigot shooting are urged to contact the Marigot Police Station at 456-3895. Anonymous tips can also be provided by dialing 555 or through the RSLPF Crime Hotline Application, available for download on the Google Play Store.
Police officials maintain that citizen cooperation remains critical to dismantling the networks responsible for gun violence. The RSLPF has emphasized that stronger community ties, intelligence sharing, and the continued seizure of illegal weapons form the backbone of its current crime-fighting strategy.
Sunday’s deadly shooting comes amid broader concerns about the island’s public safety. While authorities have made notable strides in apprehending violent offenders and intercepting firearms shipments, the consistent rise in homicides has fueled renewed calls for a more comprehensive and coordinated response from both government agencies and civil society.
As investigations into Justin Raphael’s death continue, police have not released information regarding suspects or possible motives. Residents of Marigot and surrounding communities have expressed heightened anxiety following the shooting, with some urging an increased police presence to deter further violence.
The RSLPF has assured the public that all leads are being pursued aggressively as part of an ongoing effort to deliver justice for the victims and restore a sense of security island-wide.
Unitedpac St Lucia News will continue to monitor developments on this story and other major crime updates impacting communities across the island.
