Blue Hills Homicide
The Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is investigating a homicide that occurred in the early hours of Sunday, 27th April 2025, in Blue Hills, Providenciales.
At approximately 12:30 am, Tactical Unit officers on patrol responded to reports of gunfire at Ralph Close Evangelic Yard.
Officers arrived at the scene and discovered an unresponsive male body behind a wooden
An apartment with what seemed to be gunshot wounds to the body. The deceased has been identified as FRITZNEL BELIARD, 43, of Limbe, Haiti.
We extend our condolences to Mr. Beliard's family and friends.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that a group of individuals were gathered in the yard playing music and socializing when two armed men approached them. Members of the group ran off in different directions. Shots were heard, and Beliard was found shortly after.
Investigators are yet to ascertain a definitive motive for the shooting and are exploring all angles.
A life has been taken senselessly, and we urge the public to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.
We urge anyone with information regarding this incident to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to anonymously provide any information.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information.
Shooting Incident in Grand Turk
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is investigating a shooting incident that occurred shortly after midnight on Saturday, 26th April 2025, at a business establishment along Church Folly, Grand Turk.
Four individuals sustained gunshot wounds during the incident: a 19-year-old male, a 19-year-old female, a 28-year-old male, and a 24-year-old male and were rushed to the Cockburn Town Medical Centre (CTMC) for immediate treatment.
Investigations have revealed that this was a targeted attack. As part of our immediate response, Additional resources have been deployed to Grand Turk to strengthen the current team of officers on the island.
We are calling on members of the public who may have information or CCTV footage that could assist investigators to contact the Grand Turk Police Station at 1 (649) 946-2299, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers 1-800-8477 (TIPS).
Individuals can also download and use the Crime Stoppers P3 app to submit information anonymously.
Bad Company, Joe Cocker, Soundgarden among 2025 Rock Hall Inductees
Bad Company, Joe Cocker, Soundgarden and The White Stripes are among the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees, who were announced Sunday on American Idol.
Also getting into the Rock Hall this year are "Girls Just Want To Have Fun" singer Cyndi Lauper, “Twist” king Chubby Checker and rap group Outkast.
While they've both been eligible for decades, Bad Company, the supergroup featuring former Free members Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, and Cocker are getting in on their first nomination, as is Checker.
“Each of these inductees created their own sound and attitude that had a profound impact on culture and helped to change the course of Rock & Roll forever,” said John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “Their music gave a voice to generations and influenced countless artists that followed in their footsteps.”
The Rock Hall will also induct the late “Werewolves of London” singer Warren Zevon and rap group Salt-N-Pepa with the Musical Influence Award, while the late keyboardist/session man Nicky Hopkins, renowned session bassist Carole Kaye and R&B producer Thom Bell will be inducted with the Musical Excellence Award.
Among the 2025 nominees who didn’t get in this year are Billy Idol, The Black Crowes, Oasis, Mariah Carey, Mexican rock band Maná and Phish, who won the fan vote.
The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place Nov. 8 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles and will stream live on Disney+. A highlights special will air on ABC at a later date and stream on Hulu the next day.
Source-ABC
Trump asks Supreme Court to lift block on transgender military ban
The Trump administration has made a new emergency request of the U.S. Supreme Court seeking an immediate stay of a nationwide injunction blocking the ban on openly transgender military service members.
Solicitor General John Sauer said the injunction, issued by a district court in Washington, usurps the authority of the president in determining who can serve in the nation's armed forces and runs counter to the high court's own decision in the first Trump administration to allow the ban to move forward.
The Trump administration's policy on transgender soldiers would be a "de facto blanket prohibition" that seeks "to eradicate transgender service," 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Benjamin Settle, a George W. Bush nominee, wrote when issuing the preliminary injunction in the case, Trump v. Shilling, on March 27.
The case was filed by a group of seven transgender service members and one transgender person who wishes to enlist in the United States Marine Corps.
Source-ABC
Teen charged with allegedly starting massive New Jersey wildfire
A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of starting a massive New Jersey wildfire that has consumed at least 15,100 acres and continued to burn Thursday afternoon, authorities said.
In a statement released Thursday morning, New Jersey officials, including Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, announced the arrest of Joseph Kling of Waretown, New Jersey. He was charged with second-degree aggravated arson, for allegedly purposely destroying a forest; and third-degree arson, for allegedly recklessly endangering buildings or structures.
Kling was arrested after investigators determined the fire to be "incendiary by an improperly extinguished bonfire," according to the statement.
During his first court appearance on Thursday afternoon, Kling did not enter a plea to the charges. A detention hearing is scheduled for April 29.
The Jones Road Wildfire was first spotted about 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday in the Greenwood Wildlife Management area in Waretown, officials said. Fueled by drought-ravaged vegetation, blustery winds and low relative humidity, the fire quickly spread and threatened around 1,300 structures at one point, fire officials said.
At least 5,000 people heeded mandatory evacuation orders or voluntarily evacuated, according to officials.
Source-ABC
Outkast & Salt-N-Pepa inducted into Rock n Roll Hall of Fame
Outkast and Salt-N-Pepa's contributions to the world of rap have earned them a future induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Outkast is among those being honored in the performer category, securing an induction as first-time nominees. Featuring André 3000 and Big Boi, the group will be inducted alongside Chubby Checker, Bad Company, Cyndi Lauper, Soundgarden and more.
Salt-N-Pepa is set to receive the Musical Influence Award, as will Warren Zevon. The hip-hop group will accept the award on Nov. 8 during the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, taking place at the Peacock Theater in LA. It will stream live on Disney+, while a highlights special will air on ABC at a later date and stream on Hulu the next day.
“Each of these inductees created their own sound and attitude that had a profound impact on culture and helped to change the course of Rock & Roll forever,” said RRHOF Chairman John Sykes in a statement. “Their music gave a voice to generations and influenced countless artists that followed in their footsteps.”
Ticket info will be announced at a later date.
Disney is the parent company of ABC News.
Targeted Multi-Agency Operations in Blue Hills
Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Tactical Unit on Wednesday, April 23rd, led a coordinated multi-agency operation in Blue Hills, focusing on an illegal settlement near Miracle Close.
The operation, which involved the deployment of over 70 officers, including Border Force personnel, conducted foot patrols to identify and disrupt criminal activity in the area. Several individuals were engaged, stopped, and searched.
This operation was part of a broader effort to reassure the public, gather vital intelligence, and directly address criminal elements believed to reside within these unauthorized settlements.
The Blue Hills operation is part of an ongoing series of initiatives encompassing the Snake Hill and Dock Yard districts.
As officers departed the area, a fire was observed within the settlement.
Preliminary reports suggest it was accidentally started by a resident fleeing the area and leaving cooking equipment unattended.
Emergency services were alerted, and no injuries have been reported.
The RT&CIPF remains committed to proactive policing efforts and urges anyone with information that could support future operations to contact us anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, the nearest police station, 911, or the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842.
Individuals can also download and use the Crime Stoppers P3 app to submit information anonymously.
Major Firearms and Ammunition Find
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) has recorded a breakthrough in the ongoing battle against gun violence, following a successful operation conducted last week.
At approximately 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, Tactical and Serious Crime Unit officers executed a targeted operation at a premises in Five Cays, Providenciales.
During the search, officers found two high-powered, military-style firearms and more than 200 rounds of ammunition. Following this discovery, thorough investigations were conducted as officers pursued various leads. One suspected gang member is currently in police custody in connection with the discovery.
Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey said: “The seizure of these dangerous weapons sends an unequivocal message—we will not tolerate violence and lawlessness in our communities.
This significant find has potentially prevented the loss of life and further acts of violence against law-abiding citizens. Our officers remain resolute in their mission to pursue individuals who possess and traffic illegal firearms. SEVEN firearms have been seized from January 1 to April
23rd, 2025. Five of which were pistols. The recovered weapons have been sent for ballistic testing.
“This operation forms part of the RT&CIPF’s intensified anti-crime suppression activities aimed at removing illegal firearms from the streets, disrupting criminal networks, and enhancing public safety.
“Our anti-crime efforts remain focused on high-visibility and intelligence-driven operations. The successes recorded over the past week are a testament to our officers' dedication and hard work towards achieving our crime reduction targets for 2025 and making the islands safer.”
The RT&CIPF will continue to conduct targeted operations, including road traffic stops and search exercises, in areas harbouring priority offenders and suspects.
Members of the public are reminded of their vital role in supporting law enforcement efforts.
Anyone with information regarding illegal activities is urged to contact the nearest police station, dial 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-8477.
Individuals can also download and use the Crime Stoppers P3 app to submit information anonymously.
Investigation Launched following suspicious emails to schools
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, has launched an active investigation following the receipt of suspicious emails to six schools earlier this evening.
At this stage, police intelligence has not confirmed the legitimacy of the threats. However, the police force is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.
A joint meeting between education officials and senior police officers was convened promptly after the emails were reported. The RT&CIPF’s Intelligence Unit is fully engaged and working to trace the origin of the messages.
We understand that these messages may cause concern and wish to assure the public that everything possible is being done to protect our school communities.
The Ministry of Education has confirmed that examinations have commenced, and every effort is being made to ensure that students sitting examinations are not distracted or disadvantaged.
Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
GENDER AFFAIRS CELEBRATES GIRLS IN ICT DAY 2025
Department of Gender Affairs, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs & Transportation, is proud to announce its Inaugural Girls in ICT Day Speech Competition, to be held on Thursday, May 1st, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Salvation Army Auditorium in Providenciales.
Although International Girls in ICT Day is globally observed on the last Thursday in April, this year’s celebration in the Turks and Caicos Islands will take place on May 1st to accommodate the Easter school holidays. The decision allows for broader participation from students and educators alike, ensuring this groundbreaking event is accessible to all involved.
Girls in ICT Day is a global initiative led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), aimed at inspiring and encouraging girls and young women to pursue studies and careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). With the digital world expanding rapidly, this observance highlights the importance of including women and girls in shaping the future of tech. It also draws attention to the gender divide in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields and works toward ensuring that girls are not left behind in the digital revolution.
This year’s theme, “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation,” reflects the growing need for equitable access to digital tools, knowledge, and careers for all young people, especially girls. As countries around the world adapt to rapid technological change, it is critical that girls are given every opportunity to develop digital skills, innovate, and lead in the tech space. The theme also speaks to the role that inclusion plays in national development, highlighting how equal participation in ICT benefits entire communities.
In this first-of-its-kind speech competition, students from across the Turks and Caicos Islands will take to the stage to share their perspectives on the topic: “How Can Digital Skills Empower Girls to Lead in ICT, and What Role Do Schools and Communities Play in Creating More Opportunities?”
Six schools from across the islands are participating in the event, with student representatives selected to speak on behalf of their institutions. These young ladies are:
Tianna Kerr – Alpha Christian Academy
Jeffca Forbes – Clement Howell High School
Amelia Daniel – Maranatha Academy
Tessenya Pyne – H.J. Robinson High School
Bretanae Smith – Raymond Gardiner High School
Danisha Decius – A. Louise Garland Thomas High School
Each participant will present original speeches that demonstrate their understanding of the digital landscape, the challenges faced by girls in ICT, and their vision for a more inclusive future. The competition is designed not only to test their public speaking abilities but also to empower them as thought leaders and role models for their peers.
The launch of the speech competition builds on the Department’s previous initiatives to promote gender equality in technology. In 2023, the Department facilitated school visits by women working in the ICT sector, offering firsthand insights and inspiration to students. In 2024, the Department hosted a dynamic panel discussion in Providenciales, where over 100 girls from across the Turks and Caicos Islands came together to hear from leading women in technology and digital business. These efforts have laid a strong foundation for this year’s event, which raises the bar by giving girls a public platform to share their voices.
The Department of Gender Affairs acknowledges the generous support of its event sponsors, Beaches Turks and Caicos, COMO Parrot Cay, FLOW, Fortis TCI, and Blue Haven Resort, whose contributions help bring visibility and resources to this vital cause.
The Minister of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs and Transportation, Hon. Shaun Malcolm, emphasized the critical importance of investing in the next generation of female ICT leaders and the government's continued commitment to gender inclusion, youth empowerment, and the role of digital innovation in driving national development.
The Minister stated:
“It is with great pride and optimism that I commend the Department of Gender Affairs on the launch of this inaugural Girls in ICT Day Speech Competition. This initiative clearly reflects the Government’s commitment, anchored in the Government’s Citizens’ Contract 2.0 with the people to gender inclusion and youth empowerment. It places young women at the forefront of digital innovation, a space where their voices and talents are not only needed but essential.”
This year’s theme, ‘Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation’, speaks volumes. In today’s rapidly evolving digital age, the future belongs to those who are equipped with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to lead. It is imperative that girls are among those future leaders. By creating platforms such as this, an investment is being made in a generation of innovators who will drive national development and help shape a more inclusive society.
The Department of Gender Affairs deserves commendation for its continued dedication to championing girls in technology. Past initiatives, from school visits by women in ICT to engaging panel discussions have paved the way for today’s milestone event. And to the young ladies competing, know this: your words have power, your dreams are valid, and your future in ICT is bright.
Let this be a collective effort by the Ministry, the community, and the nation to build a more equitable digital landscape where every girl is encouraged to dream big and lead boldly.”
The Department of Gender Affairs is proud to champion girls' cause in ICT and remains committed to creating a society where young women are encouraged and supported in pursuing their dreams in the digital world. The speech competition marks the beginning of a new tradition in the Turks and Caicos Islands, one where girls take center stage in shaping the future of technology.