Police launch homicide investigation amid rising violence in Grand Riviere, St Lucia
TI MORNE, UNION — May 11, 2025 — Jeremiah Precius fatally stabbed in Ti Morne, Union, has become the focus of a police homicide investigation following a deadly incident that unfolded Sunday evening. The 44-year-old resident was discovered unresponsive near a roadside in the Grand Riviere community and was later pronounced dead at the Owen King EU Hospital.
The fatal stabbing of Precius marks Saint Lucia’s 26th homicide of 2025, underscoring the persistence of violent crime across communities island-wide. Law enforcement officials continue to face mounting pressure as the national homicide count climbs steadily despite public assurances of improved safety.
According to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, no suspects have been detained, and an appeal has been issued for witnesses to come forward. The Babonneau Police Station is leading the investigation, with tips accepted anonymously through the Crime Hotline at 555 or the police reporting app.
Family mourns after Jeremiah Precius fatally stabbed
Speaking to a local news outlet, family members described Precius as a kind and dependable presence in the community. His younger brother, Marlon Precius, arrived at the scene shortly after the attack and recounted his emotional attempt to revive his sibling.
“I was the only guy there trying to keep my brother alive,” Marlon said. “I saw my brother die in front of me. That is my backbone. I have no words.”
He also noted the difficulty of shielding their elderly mother, a diabetic recently discharged from hospital, from the news. “We can’t even tell her yet,” he added. “That’s what’s hurting the most.”
Eyewitness recounts last interaction
A close female friend of the victim said she had spent time with Precius earlier that day during a small gathering. “The last time I saw Jerry, I combed his hair. We were barbecuing,” she said. She left briefly to run an errand and returned to the horrific scene. “Jerry was a very nice person. He loved my children.”
She said he had sustained multiple stab wounds to the abdomen and suggested the incident may have stemmed from a minor disagreement.
Recent surge in violent crimes across St Lucia
Precius’ death adds to a growing list of violent incidents across the island. Just weeks earlier, three men were killed in a triple homicide in Barre Denis during a daylight ambush that shocked residents and drew island-wide condemnation. That case remains unsolved, with investigators still pursuing leads.
The proximity of these back-to-back killings has deepened public concern about the trajectory of violent crime, particularly as officials maintain that national homicide rates are on the decline. Community leaders have voiced frustration over what they describe as a lack of transparency and sustained preventative action.
Community calls for change
In the wake of the tragedy, Marlon Precius delivered an emotional appeal for peace, particularly directed at Saint Lucia’s youth.
“Let’s forget about being negative,” he urged. “Let’s live life on a positive high. Even though I cry, nothing can bring my brother back.”
As the investigation continues, residents of Ti Morne, Union, within the broader Grand Riviere area, remain shaken by the loss of a man remembered for his good nature, charisma, and loyalty to his family and friends.
For updates on this case and broader crime coverage across St Lucia, follow Unitedpac St Lucia News.
