Father of five among casualties as second Marchand shooting victim dies.
CASTRIES, St Lucia — The second Marchand shooting victim dies following last month’s deadly gun attack that claimed the life of businessman Qwami George. Police confirmed that 37-year-old Chris Lionel of Tou Rouge died on Tuesday, August 12, marking St Lucia’s 49th homicide of 2025.
According to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, officers from the Marchand Police Station responded to reports of gunfire along Marchand Road at about 7:55 p.m. on Sunday, July 20. When they arrived, they found two men with gunshot wounds outside Qwami George’s shop.
George, 45, of Marchand Road, was transported to the Owen King European Hospital (OKEU) where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Unitedpac St Lucia News previously reported on the circumstances of George’s death and political reaction to the incident.
Chris Lionel, who police said was not the intended target, had reportedly gone to purchase drinks from George for resale during Carnival Monday when the shooting occurred. He suffered critical injuries, including puncture wounds to major organs. His wife told DBS News World that doctors initially gave him a 50 percent chance of survival.
Nine days after the shooting, the couple, who had been engaged and planned to marry in December, exchanged vows at the hospital. “That was his wish, so I made it happen,” she said. The couple shared five children, ranging in age from two years old to their early teens.
The Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate the shooting and is appealing to anyone with information to contact the unit at 456-3754. Anonymous tips can be provided by dialing 555 or through the RSLPF Crime Hotline App.
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