Choiseul community gripped by fear as Ken Joseph Ismael murder suspect evades capture
CHOISEUL, Saint Lucia (March 24, 2025) — The suspect in the killing of Ken Joseph Ismael remains on the run after a confrontation with a police officer ended in his escape, according to a report from Loop News St Lucia. The development has intensified fears in the Choiseul community and raised questions about public safety as Saint Lucia records its 13th homicide of the year.
Ismael, a respected farmer and fisherman from La Pointe, Choiseul, was fatally struck in the back of the head with an object on Thursday, March 20, between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. The attacker, described as a man in his 20s, is believed to be someone known to both the victim and the community.
A police officer reportedly confronted the suspect shortly after the incident, resulting in a struggle during which the officer’s firearm discharged. The suspect managed to flee during the altercation and has not been apprehended. A former officer living nearby said he heard the gunfire during the confrontation.
The alleged assailant had been living alone in an abandoned house in the Industry area. According to relatives, he was once an academically gifted student who attended St. Mary’s College and Sir Arthur Lewis Community College but later dropped out and became increasingly reclusive.
Community members say the suspect has a history of criminal behavior, including theft and property damage, sometimes targeting his own family. His continued evasion has heightened anxiety among residents.
“I am even more concerned than I was on the day when the assailant allegedly killed Ken,” one resident said.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has not released the suspect’s name but confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the manhunt continues.
The killing of Ken Joseph Ismael has shocked the quiet village of La Pointe and drawn attention to rising violent crime on the island. Community leaders are calling for stronger police presence and greater investment in mental health services to prevent similar tragedies.
Stay with Unitedpac St Lucia News for ongoing coverage and reliable updates on this developing story.
