23-year-old Republic Bank Limited employee Tafari Gabriel Charles was reportedly killed sometime between 11.40 pm and midnight on Thursday, after being shot at his Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Petit Valley home.
Police reports said Charles was at home with other people when two suspects were seen entering the premises. Eyewitness accounts indicated that Charles, who had been in his bedroom, was alerted that one of the men, who was armed with a gun, had entered the house and was demanding cash and valuables.
Police reports indicated that Charles came out from his bedroom and confronted the suspect, demanding that he leave. However, a struggle ensued, and he was shot twice as Charles slumped to the ground, the armed suspect walked out of the house and the two bandits escaped in an unknown direction. Charles was taken to the St James Medical Complex by police officers but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Evidence collected included two 9mm spent shells, along with a gold ring and chain, which were left behind by the bandits. His family described him as a a dedicated hard hard-working young man: “He used to make his own lunch to carry to work because he wanted to save money.” His family said Charles was always careful not to be sucked into a life of crime like other young men.