crime

Shock hangs heavy as family and friends struggle to come to terms with the sudden death of Jamaal Ferguson, a man many remember for his kindness and for his smile.

“Nice young man. Always had a smile for you,” Yvonne Rolle said, still trying to process the news.

Ferguson, 42, was found at his home on Wednesday with stab wounds to his upper body after friends, unable to reach him, requested a police wellness check. The discovery sent waves of disbelief through those who knew him.

“No, bro. I just talked to you,” Deangelo Francis wrote in shock. “I can’t believe this. No way, bro.”

Others replayed their most recent encounters with him. Daniel Demeritte said he had just seen Jamaal over the weekend at a washhouse. “Wow,” he wrote. “Sleep in peace, bro.”

His cousin, identified online as Ajay Mobb, shared her grief plainly: “Y’all take my cousin from me. Lord, my cousin is really gone.”

Tributes poured in across social media, painting the picture of someone who lived loudly and showed up.

“I have never met someone so eclectic, positive, kind, and generous like you,” one friend wrote. “The way you loved life and everyone around you was contagious.

“Those who had the privilege to befriend you can attest to how kind and loyal you were.”

Friends say Jamaal lived authentically, embracing joy wherever he found it. “He had the biggest smile anyone could ask for,” Danielle McKay remembered.

Ferguson was also known in the sports community as a dedicated volleyball player who proudly represented the Bahamas. “You represented your country with pride,” Tia Johnson wrote. “A great loss to the volleyball community.”

Many also knew him from TikTok, where he posted sleek photos and upbeat reminders to friends: “Look good, smell good. Let’s go out.”

Others remembered his words of encouragement and laughter. Former colleagues from Baha Mar’s casino described him as a “beautiful soul” and a beloved host.

One technician shared that Ferguson had an appointment scheduled for Thursday, but it wasn’t meant to be. “Who coming to our therapy session tomorrow?” she wrote.

One month into 2026, the Bahamas is standing at the edge of something big. The election date has not been called, but the signs are everywhere, in politics, in hospitals, on the roads, and in the frustration of everyday Bahamians.

Political tension

Politically, the year has opened with parties finalizing candidates, with ratifications against a backdrop of internal tensions. In constituencies like Southern Shore, the process has been anything but smooth for the Progressive Liberal Party, reminding voters that behind the message of party unity, pressure is building.

Trust, Corruption, and Public Perception

Beyond politics, the state of healthcare has emerged as one of the most troubling early headlines of the year. The Public Hospitals Authority, running out of overtime money, has exposed deeper cracks in an already strained healthcare system. Doctors and nurses say they are overworked and underpaid. Unions warn of staff leaving “in droves.” Patients and families continue to complain about delayed care and declining quality.

Crime: Better Numbers, Lingering Fear

Questions of trust and integrity have also surfaced. Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles confirmed that two officers are now facing disciplinary proceedings after a viral video appeared to show an officer attempting to solicit a bribe from a tourist during a traffic stop. The incident, which came to light through social media, reignited public concern about corruption and accountability.

While Knowles strongly rejected claims made by an American attorney that the Bahamas is “infected by corruption,” the episode underscores public perception. Confidence in enforcement organizations is shaken.

Crime: Lowered Numbers, Lingering Fear

Official statistics show a notable decrease in murders and overall crime in 2025, yet many Bahamians do not feel safer. Incidents, retaliation violence, and gun crimes continue to shape public perception. It’s a reminder that data can improve, but trust in the system takes more than press conferences.

Road Safety and conditions, a Concern

On the roads, tragedy has remained a constant. Serious car crashes and road fatalities have continued into the new year, sparking renewed concerns about reckless driving, poor road conditions, and public safety.

VAT, Cost of Living, and Economic Pressure

Economically, the government’s recent VAT announcement has caused mixed reactions. While officials point to its elimination of VAT on some items, many say it does little to ease the high cost of living and their stagnant wages. Cost of living remains the issue voters are talking about.

Grand Bahama: Promises and Patience

In Grand Bahama, promises continue to flow, from airport upgrades to the Grand Lucayan redevelopment to power and energy. But residents are still asking the same question they’ve asked for years, when will they see and feel tangible benefits, not just announced.

One month into 2026, the country is moving, but uneasily. As election season draws closer, Bahamians are watching for results.

Every time new crime statistics are released, the reaction is predictable. If the numbers are high, panic follows, and if the numbers are low, celebration begins.

According to Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles, overall crime fell by 15 percent in 2025. Murders dropped by 31 percent, the largest percentage decrease ever recorded. Crimes against the person fell across every major region.

On paper, it appears to be a significant shift.

Yet for many Bahamians, it is not felt.

The disconnection between statistics and the Bahamian lived experience is where we often get crime reporting wrong.

Firstly, crime figures measure incidents, not the impact of the crime. One murder in a neighbourhood can ripple through families and social circles in a way numbers cannot capture. A decrease in total murders does not erase the trauma of the crimes that still occurred, particularly when most victims are young men between 18 and 45, killed with firearms, often tied to retaliation and gang conflict.

Second, the statistics do not measure fear. Even with fewer murders, a single brazen daylight shooting or viral video can shape public perception for months. It concentrates in certain neighborhoods, many of them in the south central and southern divisions, which still accounted for more than a third of murders last year.

Additionally, we often confuse trends with resolutions. A downward trajectory is not the same as a solved problem. Firearms were still used in the majority of murders. Detection rates, while improving, still leave unanswered questions for many families. And some categories, like stolen vehicles, actually increased.

Another overlooked issue is reporting behavior. Crimes like rape and unlawful sexual intercourse showed decreases, reaching historic lows in some cases. That may sound like progress, but it may also reflect underreporting, fear, or lack of trust in the justice system meant to protect victims.

Numbers alone cannot tell us which is true.

The Opening of the Legal Year 2026 is intended to be a moment of reflection for the Bahamas’ justice system, setting the tone for the administration of justice ahead. But the system is under serious strain.

Anglican Bishop Laish Boyd spoke plainly at church service, questioning inequality in how justice is applied in the Bahamas. “How is it that a black man commits the same crime as a white person, or a rich or well-connected man, and they receive different treatment and different sentences?” he asked.

He went further, calling the delays and bureaucracy in the system “manufactured for convenience, for delay, for spite.”

Watch here as Bishop Laish Boyd scolds the judiciary at the Opening of the Legal Year

His words echoed what many Bahamians already feel, that justice is not being delivered evenly or efficiently.

Click to watch Attorney General Ryan Pinder refute Bishop Laish Boyd’s claims.

One of the most controversial areas is bail, especially in murder cases.

In 2023, 77 people were charged with murder. Of those, 24 were released on bail within the same year. Twelve were already on bail for murder when they were charged again. Two allegedly committed another murder while on bail, and five were later charged with other major crimes.

While bail is a legal right meant to protect the presumption of innocence, repeated violent offenses by those already granted freedom have shaken public confidence in the justice system.

Court outcomes have further fueled public concerns.

• In December, Justice Dale Fitzpatrick directed a jury to acquit two men accused in the 2017 murders of Dennis Moss and third grader Eugene Woodside Jr after prosecutors presented an “anonymous witness,” culminating in ‘no evidence.’
• In another case last year, a father received just five years for sexually assaulting his three-year-old twin daughters. An
• An American businessman caught with 14 guns and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition avoided prison entirely by paying a $1.4 million fine.

Together, these cases demonstrate that serious crimes are not always met with what appear to be serious consequences.

The crisis is not only about the individual rulings in each case, but it is also about public trust.

When citizens believe that wealth, status, or connections influence outcomes, faith in the rule of law erodes. When dangerous individuals return to the streets through bail or lenient sentencing, public safety is at risk.

The opening of the Legal Year should mark progress. Instead, it reminds us of a system struggling. If justice is to mean the same thing for everyone, reforms must go beyond speeches.

The question now is whether those in charge will confront these failures.

Friends and loved ones are struggling to make sense of the killing of a 25-year-old father who was shot dead on Christmas Eve, just hours after purchasing gifts for his children.

Those who knew Christopher Mott say the violence that ended his life does not reflect the man they loved.

“He was a good and very decent young man,” Crystal Arias wrote in a social media post, describing Mott as someone she knew like family. He was her son’s best friend and a close friend of Mott’s immediate family.

Mott, a mechanic, was found inside his vehicle with gunshot wounds near the intersection of Graham Drive and Lime Street shortly after 7 pm last Wednesday. Police are continuing investigations into the shooting.

 “We are still in shock,” Arias said. “It’s so terrible that someone would do this to him.”

As questions and speculation circulated online, friends were quick to defend Mott’s character.

Chris Cox questioned the narrative forming around the killing, asking: “What type of life he lived before he bought his kids Christmas gifts?”–a comment many saw as unfair and painful.

Arias pushed back.

“He was a very decent and respectful young man,” she said. “It was just a senseless murder. That’s all.”

She added, “He was not a street kid. If you really knew him, you knew him. But you can still be a good person, and someone will still hate you. They didn’t have to kill him.”

Community members say the loss reflects a wider national wound.

Reverend Izetta Bain described the killing as part of a troubling pattern, saying it is “sad and mind-boggling” how frequently young men are dying, whether by violence or sudden tragedy.

“This calls for national weeping,” she said, urging prayer and reflection amid what she described as a growing crisis.

Others voiced frustration over crime and enforcement.

Shakara Pinder said many criminals appear unafraid of consequences. “The laws are slack where they can kill and be out the next day,” she wrote, calling for stronger action to stem the bloodshed.

Friends and loved ones of Mario “Ducky” Lockhart are struggling to come to terms with his sudden and violent death early Monday morning in Fort Charlotte.

Shock and disbelief rippled among those who knew him not just as a security professional but as a protector, a giver, and a friend.

“This was a real giant of a man, pure heart of gold. The realist I ever came across,” one close friend wrote on social media.

Police say Lockhart, who was well known in security circles as the CEO of Hardcore Security, was preparing for an event when he was reportedly shot by a man dressed in dark clothing and a ski mask. Lockhart died at the scene.

For many, the loss feels senseless and deeply personal.

“These cowards respect no one. They don’t value life,” said Lauraine, still reeling from the news.

Others shared their heartbreak online.

“I’m speechless. I can’t believe they took you away from us on my birthday,” said Holly Pearce. “You will always be my brother and my friend.”

Wellington Roberts remembered Lockhart’s presence and discipline.

“Your attitude was always firm. Your dedication was always one hundred percent,” he said. “And for those who knew you personally, your smile meant everyone around you was having a good time. The women loved you, the men respected you, and even those who never met you respected your name.”

JS Event Management added to the chorus in a social media tribute, “He was always personally requested by Beres Hammond. He was a protector, leader, and guardian to all entrusted to his care…He carried himself with strength, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility. His service was never about recognition, but about duty.”

Beyond his work, many remember Lockhart for his quiet generosity.

Xhynah Williams recalled meeting him while running an outreach programme for mothers and children. Lockhart, who she is familiar with, saw her at a local shoe store.

“He put his Polo slippers back on the shelf and bought every pair of shoes I had lined up for the programme,” she said. “He bought almost every doll, earrings, and clothing item I had packed in boxes. I left that mall thanking God with a testimony, because of Ducky.”

Judy Thompson remembered a brief but joyful encounter months ago.

“Ducky was a true professional and deeply respected,” she said. “I shouted, ‘My boss love ya!’ He replied, ‘Lady T, love you for life,’ and we both laughed.”

Others described him simply as kind.

“A sweet soul,” said Deidre Smith.

“Humble, respectful [and] a giant of a man,” added Lelia Smith.

“A darling. A protector,” said Theresa Wright, who first met him years ago while working together at PMH. “He was always so respectful.”

Lockhart had also stepped into public life, once running as a Democratic National Alliance candidate for Nassau Village. His political aspirations were later overshadowed by controversy after old images circulated online. At the time, the party defended him, describing the images as from the past and the result of political mischief.

Friends remember him as a protector and a giver, and a presence that made people feel safe.

The mother of eight-year-old Eugene Woodside Jr. says the decision by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to appeal the acquittal of two men once accused of her son’s killing is “a step in the right direction,” but far from closure.

Kendra Woodside told the Tribune she is relieved the matter is not over, even as she continues to grapple with the shock of being entirely excluded from the trial that collapsed last week.

READ MORE: The tragedy of Eugene Woodside Jr–From tragedy to acquittal

“I will allow them to do what they have to do,” she said. “But I wouldn’t call myself happy.”

Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Fraizer confirmed that her office filed an amended appeal on Friday.

The trial judge refused to hear an application for an anonymous witness. The two men— Lloyd Minnis and Perry Pickering were acquitted last Friday since no witnesses were present to testify, though the prosecution said they requested to present an anonymous witness.

The new filing now also appeals the judge’s directed acquittal of the accused men.

The matter is scheduled to be heard in the Court of Appeal on Wednesday, December 17.

Eugene Jr., was doing homework in their Chippingham home in September 2017 when a stray bullet tore through the wall and struck him in the chest. Pregnant at the time, she held him as he died.

For Woodside, the appeal offers a sliver of hope

The family of 21-year-old Edvadro Munroe is mourning his death days after he was hospitalized following a stabbing in Graham Drive.

Munroe was attacked on October 30 by a man known to him and remained in hospital until his death on Friday, leaving relatives heartbroken.

“You didn’t deserve to go this young,” his aunt Jahvet Smith wrote on social media. “Every time I see ‘RIP’ under your pictures, tears flow uncontrollably.”

Munroe, who had dreams of becoming a mechanic and often worked on cars and boats, was described by family as “loving and strong.”

Police had previously issued a wanted poster for Michael Adderley in connection with the incident, then classified as attempted murder. With Munroe’s passing, authorities are expected to upgrade the charge to murder.

According to reports, Munroe and a friend were talking with another man on Graham Drive around 5 pm when Adderley allegedly approached and stabbed him. It is unclear if he is currently in police custody.

In the days after the attack, relatives appealed for blood donations, but doctors later told the family Munroe had lost too much blood.

Munroe’s mother, Irene Smith, said she is demanding justice for her only child.

“We all know this guy. We know his family, and he knows ours. We still don’t have a clear understanding of why he attacked my child,” she told The Tribune.

“I want justice for my baby. He was all I ever had in this world. My life will never be the same without him.”

Jahvet remembered how Munroe checked in on her daily and joined her at a recent Zumba class.

“You made me feel comfortable enough to dance,” she said. “I’m truly grateful I got to spend those last two Saturdays with you.”

Friends and family of 22-year-old prison officer Ashantino Johnson, who was killed in a brawl early Wednesday morning, say they are heartbroken and in disbelief. Many described him as a humble, respectful young man with a bright future ahead of him.

“He was such a humble officer with a bright future ahead of him,” wrote friend Myzz Lovely Deleveaux in a social media post.

Johnson was one of three people stabbed during an altercation at a popular pub on Blue Hill Road North. He later died from his injuries.

Originally from North Eleuthera, Johnson previously served as a Ranger Cadet with the Royal Bahamas Defence Force before joining the Bahamas Department of Corrections.

One of his former coordinators, Tevin McPhee, remembered Johnson as a standout cadet.

“He was my ranger–quietly respectful, big-hearted and always quick with a smile that could light up the parade,” McPhee said.

“I used to joke, ‘I don’t like people taller than me.’ He’d bend his knees just to make me laugh. He was thoughtful, playful and full of love for people around him.”

Johnson had recently graduated as a corrections officer and was excited about his future on the job.

Coworkers also shared their grief online. One said she last saw him marching proudly in the color party at the Department’s annual church service on Sunday.

“This is truly tragic,” she said.

His mother, Marie Cash, wept over her son’s death.

“My baby, look at my baby. Mommy loves you, Clevy,” she cried. “They took my baby, oh Jesus.”

His cousin, Ezranique Cash, said, “This world was too evil for the kind heart you had.”

Another colleague remembered him as dedicated and dependable.

“Always willing to step forward for any duty or task, very mannerly and loving,” the coworker said. “You weren’t just my teammate, you were like a little brother.”

Friend Edward Pratt recalled their last conversation.

“You had so many plans ahead of you. My last words to you were, ‘Stay focused and keep your head up.’”

His sister, Chante Johnson, shared her heartbreak on social media.

“Y’all killed my baby. 2025 hasn’t even finished yet. I can’t catch myself,” she wrote.

Another friend, Sheila Thompson, added, “You deserved so much better. This was the biggest heartbreak of the year.”

Johnson’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes, as loved ones remember a young man whose life was filled with promise and cut tragically short.

A night out turned tragic for 20-year-old beach attendant Mekhi Taylor, who was shot and killed early Saturday morning — leaving his family and friends heartbroken and searching for answers.

Taylor, described as a “kind soul who made the day better,” worked at The Blue Zone Experience, which shared a tribute after his death.

“He was hardworking, respectful, and an irreplaceable asset to the business… We are grateful for his life and the time he spent with us,” the company said in a social media post.

Police said Taylor was standing with a group of people in a parking lot on University Drive around 2 a.m. Saturday, when a Japanese vehicle pulled up and the occupants opened fire on the crowd.

Taylor was struck and later died of his injuries.

His sister, K’nelle Taylor, told The Tribune she believes he was not the intended target.

“He never bothered anyone. He was never into gang violence,” she said.

Before the shooting, Taylor had dinner at Carnivale Bahamas, dropped off a neighbor, returned home, then went back out — never to return.

“I was sleeping,” K’nelle recalled. “My younger brother woke me up and said, ‘Mekhi get shoot.’”

Friends say Mekhi loved life and the social scene. His sister said he was known as a “partier”, often teasing relatives who warned him to be careful.

“From he turned 18, he was just into parties and a good time,” she said. “If something was to happen to him, he’d say, ‘At least I had fun.’”

Taylor’s killing adds to the growing list of young Bahamian men lost to gun violence, a crisis that continues to devastate families and communities.