Second Shooting Incident Erupts from Phagwah Day Dispute Taxi Driver Injured

Second Shooting Incident Erupts from Phagwah Day Dispute Taxi Driver Injured

Second Shooting Incident Erupts from Phagwah Day Dispute Taxi Driver Injured

In the aftermath of Phagwah Day disagreements, another shooting incident has rocked Georgetown, leaving Rafael Hintzen, a 32-year-old taxi driver from East La Penitence, injured in the early hours of Wednesday.

The incident unfolded around 00:10 hours on Campbell Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, marking the second shooting incident stemming from Phagwah Day altercations. Earlier in the night, an 18-year-old construction worker was shot following a dispute on the festive day.

According to investigations, Hintzen and one of the suspects share a familial relationship through their involvement with two sisters. Tensions escalated on Phagwah Day when a relative of Hintzen sprayed water from a ‘water gun’ on a friend of the suspect, provoking him. An argument ensued between the suspect and a family member, during which threats of violence were exchanged.

In the early hours of Wednesday, Hintzen found himself in the crossfire when the suspect and three accomplices, all armed with handguns, ambushed him and his mother-in-law. Shots were fired in their direction, with Hintzen sustaining a gunshot wound to the foot. In a desperate attempt to seek refuge, Hintzen fled into a nearby yard, where his mother-in-law attempted to assist him.

However, the situation took a dire turn when the suspects pursued them into the yard, firing additional rounds. Hintzen’s mother-in-law managed to evade further harm by seeking refuge indoors, leaving Hintzen at the mercy of the assailants.

Fortunately, the suspects did not inflict further injuries upon Hintzen before fleeing the scene in a waiting vehicle.

Hintzen was swiftly transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he underwent medical treatment for his injuries. He remains admitted and is reported to be in stable condition.

At the crime scene, detectives recovered several spent shells and projectiles, aiding ongoing investigations. While several individuals have been questioned, the suspects remain at large as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to bring them to justice.

Also read DPP to Advise on Charges for Six Police Officers Involved in Shooting Incidents