Businessman arrested for fatal shooting of policeman

Police have arrested a 37-year-old businessman of Crane Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara, in connection with the fatal shooting of Police Lance Corporal Richard Marvin Hayes, 35, of Lot 13 School Street, Vreed-en-Hoop. The incident occurred around 09:00 hrs on Thursday at Stelling Road, Vreed-en-Hoop.

Investigations revealed that the suspect, who operates a cellular phone stall and is a licensed firearm holder of a .32 Taurus pistol, had no prior acquaintance with Hayes. Reports indicate that Hayes visited the businessman’s shop on Wednesday to inquire about purchasing several cellphones and returned the following morning to buy a phone.

According to police, the suspect told investigators that Hayes began behaving aggressively and was asked to leave the stall. It is alleged that Hayes then threw a cellphone heater gun at the businessman, striking him in the chest, after which the suspect drew his firearm and discharged one round, hitting Hayes in the right side of his chest.

Hayes’ brother, Ron Hayes, who operates a barbershop opposite the suspect’s stall, reportedly rushed to his aid and transported him to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was treated but later succumbed to his injuries.

Police have seized the suspect’s firearm and license, which have been lodged as part of the investigation. The suspect has also been processed for gunshot residue and remains in custody as investigations continue.