SHOOTING DEATH, INJURIES FORCE HOSPITAL LOCKDOWN

A deadly shooting in Kew Town and a second gun attack in Blue Hills on Saturday night have forced a temporary lockdown at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre’s in-patient unit, as authorities respond to rising security concerns.

One man was killed and two others injured in the violent incidents according to police reports.

InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital announced that, in response to the shootings, visitation to the in-patient ward at the Cheshire Hall facility has been suspended until further notice. While the lockdown affects only the in-patient unit, other essential services—including emergency care, outpatient clinics, diagnostic imaging, and lab testing—remain fully operational.

The first incident occurred around 11:12 p.m., when police responded to reports of gunfire near Harmony Close in Kew Town. At nearby Cerasie Close, officers discovered Cyrildo Smith, 33, with apparent gunshot wounds. Emergency medical responders were called to the scene, but Smith was pronounced dead at 12:16 a.m.

While securing the area, officers located a second man with gunshot injuries who was rushed to hospital. Shortly afterward, around 11:25 p.m., a second shooting was reported at Ralph Close in Blue Hills, where a 20-year-old male was found wounded inside a residence. He, too, was taken for emergency treatment.

Hospital officials said the visitation suspension is a precautionary measure to safeguard patients, staff, and visitors. “We regret the inconvenience, but this step is necessary to ensure everyone’s safety,” a spokesperson stated. “We will resume regular access once conditions allow.”

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) has launched investigations into both incidents and is urging the public to assist. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the nearest police station, call the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, dial 911, or leave anonymous tips via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or the P3 app.