A West Ruimveldt resident was early yesterday morning gunned down in full view of his friend while returning home from a dance held in the community.
Dead is Paul Rodney, 31, of Lot 530 West Ruimveldt, Georgetown.
He was shot seven times about his body including once to his chest and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he died 30 minutes later while receiving medical attention.
The incident occurred around 2.55 am.
Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum yesterday confirmed that the police are currently pursuing two suspects for questioning and several spent shells from a small-calibre weapon were discovered at the scene. Up to late yesterday afternoon, no one was apprehended.
The Guyana Police Force, in a statement, said investigations revealed that police ranks on a mobile patrol heard several explosions and went to investigate. They came upon a group of men running during which several more gunshots were fired; Rodney was seen lying motionless covered in blood.
While the circumstances surrounding the incident remain sketchy, this newspaper understands that Rodney and the suspects were involved in an argument at a dance held at Avocado Avenue, West Ruimveldt which later led to an altercation. He reportedly attempted to escape, but was pursued and shot. His assailants reportedly made good their escape on a CG motorcycle.
When Stabroek News visited the scene yesterday morning, residents were tightlipped about the incident. One woman, who wished not to be named said she and her children were sleeping when they were awakened by the gunshots. “When I peep out all I see is the boy lying on the road like he did done dead and a set of people,” she said.
The dead man’s uncle, Deryck Rodney said he was at home when he received a call from his niece informing him of the incident. “She called and tell me that the police was at the house telling her that Paul died and I left and went there right away,” he said.
Deryck explained that his nephew’s death was a complete shock to the entire family circle and they are still trying to determine what led to his demise. The grieving man said based on what he was told, Paul was returning home when he was confronted. “He started to run and they riddled him with bullets and escape,” he said.
Rodney was described as a very easy going individual who took care of his sick father. His body is currently at the GPH mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.
