Attempted Murder Under Investigation in Halfway Tree

On June 18, 2025, at approximately 9:15 PM, the tranquil community of Half Way Tree in Basseterre, St. Kitts, was shattered by the eruption of gunfire, marking yet another incident in the ongoing struggle against violent crime. Twenty-three-year-old Jelani Forde, a resident of the Harry Phipps Housing Project, became the latest victim in this unsettling trend. While socializing in a friend’s yard, Forde was ambushed by a lone, masked assailant who unleashed a volley of bullets, striking him multiple times in both feet and his left hand. Despite the sudden and brutal attack, Forde managed to escape the immediate danger and was swiftly transported to Pogson Hospital by private vehicle before being transferred to the JNF Hospital for further treatment. Thankfully, despite the severity of his injuries, Forde’s condition has been stabilized, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the gravity of the situation.

The Royal St. Christopher-Nevis Police Force, specifically the Violent Crime Unit, immediately launched a comprehensive investigation into the attempted murder. Officers meticulously combed the scene of the shooting, collecting crucial pieces of evidence that could potentially lead to the identification and apprehension of the perpetrator. This meticulous process involved photographing the area, documenting the location of spent shell casings, and searching for any other physical evidence that might shed light on the circumstances surrounding the attack. The evidence gathered will be carefully analyzed by forensic experts, providing investigators with valuable insights into the weapon used, the trajectory of the bullets, and other critical details.

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and investigators are actively pursuing various leads to determine the underlying cause of the attack. Was this a targeted assault driven by personal animosity, or was Forde caught in the crossfire of a larger conflict? These are the questions that detectives are diligently seeking to answer. The fact that the assailant was masked suggests a premeditated attack, indicating an intention to conceal their identity and evade capture. This detail underscores the calculated nature of the crime and adds another layer of complexity to the investigation.

The Royal St. Christopher-Nevis Police Force recognizes the critical role that community cooperation plays in solving crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice. In a public appeal, they have urged anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward and share their knowledge with the Violent Crimes Unit. The police have assured potential informants that any information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. This commitment to protecting the identity of witnesses is crucial in fostering trust and encouraging individuals to step forward without fear of reprisal. Public cooperation can be the linchpin in solving this case and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

This incident underscores the persistent challenge of violent crime within the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, a challenge that demands a multifaceted approach to address its root causes effectively. The police force’s dedication to thorough investigation and their appeal for public assistance are crucial steps in tackling this issue. However, long-term solutions require a broader societal effort encompassing community engagement, social programs aimed at at-risk youth, and a comprehensive strategy to address the underlying socioeconomic factors that contribute to crime.

Ultimately, the attempted murder of Jelani Forde serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of individuals within the community and the urgent need for collaborative action to create a safer and more secure environment for all residents. The investigation is ongoing, and the Royal St. Christopher-Nevis Police Force remains committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice. The success of this investigation, and the broader fight against violent crime, hinges on the collective efforts of law enforcement, community members, and government agencies working in unison to address the root causes of violence and foster a culture of peace and respect.