Police investigate after Darby Ettiene found dead in Black Bay
VIEUX FORT, St Lucia (June 12, 2025) — The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has launched a homicide investigation following the grisly discovery of a man’s body in the mangrove of Black Bay, Vieux Fort. The victim has been identified as 39-year-old Darby Ettiene of La Resource, Vieux Fort.
Saint Lucia Police officers attached to the Vieux Fort Criminal Investigations Department responded to the scene around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10, after receiving reports of a suspicious death in the area. Upon arrival, investigators found Ettiene unresponsive, with a visible wound to his neck. His body was reportedly bound, according to preliminary accounts from law enforcement sources.
A medical practitioner who was summoned to the scene pronounced Ettiene dead shortly thereafter.
Adding a disturbing twist to the developing investigation, reports indicate that Ettiene’s home was engulfed by fire shortly before the discovery of his body. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the arson is directly linked to the homicide, but have not ruled out the possibility of foul play involving multiple crime scenes.
This latest killing brings Saint Lucia’s homicide tally for 2025 to 31, intensifying pressure on law enforcement to deliver results amid rising public concern. The case follows closely on the heels of another violent episode in the capital, where brazen Marchand violence left one dead and one injured, adding to mounting national concern over the country’s security climate.
As investigators pursue leads, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is urging anyone with information to come forward. Citizens are encouraged to contact the Major Crimes Unit at 456-3754 or 456-3756. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the Crime Hotline at 555 or through the RSLPF Crime Hotline Application, available on the Google Play Store.
Authorities say updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds. At this time, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind Ettiene’s murder remains unclear.
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