Three people were killed and 10 others injured in a mass shooting at a nightclub in the Turks and Caicos Islands early Sunday morning, marking what officials described as the British territory’s first mass shooting in recent history. The attack occurred at approximately 2:57 a.m. on July 27 at the Island Hookah Lounge in Providenciales.
Police Commissioner Fitz Bailey confirmed that at least four suspects were involved in the shooting, though no arrests have been made as of this week. CCTV footage captured the gunmen armed with high-powered weapons during the attack. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while 10 others were transported to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre with injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening.
Premier Charles Washington Misick linked the shooting to gang-related violence during a press conference, stating the incident represented a “gangland-type slaying.” He indicated that much of the gang violence appears concentrated in Haitian communities and urged those communities to cooperate with law enforcement. Misick emphasized, “What is happening here is unlike anything we’ve ever seen before.”
The Premier called on community members to assist in identifying how illegal firearms are entering the territory. He expressed particular concern about individuals who may be aiding the criminals for financial gain. Misick characterized the violence as unprecedented and stressed that such incidents cannot become normalized in the territory.
Acting Governor Anya Williams confirmed that the hospital in Providenciales was placed on lockdown to protect the shooting victims. Two of the injured individuals were airlifted overseas for advanced medical treatment. Seven victims remained hospitalized with varying degrees of injury, with one person listed in serious condition. Williams declared the incident a national security critical event and notified the United Kingdom and the National Crime Agency.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force issued a statement condemning the shooting and urging public assistance with the investigation. The force emphasized the criminals’ capacity and willingness to commit serious acts of violence against citizens, residents, and visitors. Authorities are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspects.
Police Commissioner Bailey described the incident as “deeply disturbing” and confirmed that investigators have not yet determined a clear motive for the attack. The shooting represents what officials called indiscriminate violence meant to incite fear among the population.
The attack occurred during a period when the islands are implementing stricter measures regarding illegal immigration. An estimated 10,900 Haitians live in the Turks and Caicos Islands, representing approximately one-third of the territory’s population. According to United Nations humanitarian affairs office data, around 80% of Haitians in the territory reside in Providenciales, with 20% holding permanent residency status.
The U.S. State Department had previously issued a Level 2 travel advisory in March, warning travelers to exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime concerns. The advisory recommended that visitors avoid walking alone at night, not answer doors unless expecting guests, and avoid physically resisting during robbery attempts.
In response to the shooting and rising crime concerns, the government has implemented significant security measures. These include a 90-day restriction on nightlife operations, with licensed premises required to close by midnight on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weekends. The restrictions, effective from July 31 through late October, apply to all bars and lounges, including those within hotels and resorts.
Additional security measures include proposed legislation for extraordinary police powers, amendments to the Disaster Management Act allowing curfews and business closures in crime hotspots, mandatory police vetting for all licensed venues and events, and enhanced penalties for underage drinking violations. The comprehensive response represents one of the most robust crime-fighting initiatives in recent years for the territory.
The nightlife restrictions have drawn criticism from entertainment industry professionals who argue the measures unfairly impact legitimate businesses and workers dependent on the night economy. Critics contend that many violent crimes occur during daylight hours rather than at night, questioning the effectiveness of the curfew approach.
Premier Misick assured the public that the government fully supports law enforcement efforts and emphasized the importance of community unity in addressing the violence. The investigation into the Island Hookah Lounge shooting continues, with authorities maintaining a heightened police presence across the islands.
