Linden man shot dead during gambling session

Police are investigating the murder of a 28-year-old miner, Raymond Leitch of Amelia’s Ward Linden, Region Ten, who was shot by his friend during a gambling session on Monday in Cuyuni, Region Seven.

Police said that Leitch and the 34-year-old suspect of Haslington East Coast Demerara (ECD) operated shops at Quartzstone Backdam, Cuyuni.

At about 12:30hrs on Monday, the men along with two others were “gambling cards.”

The News Room understands that during the game, an argument ensued over $20,000 which the suspect claimed he won. Shortly after, a scuffle ensued and the friends were separated and proceeded to their respective shops.

An eyewitness told the News Room that the suspect stood in his shop and discharged his 9mm Taurus Pistol in the direction of Leitch’s shop, striking him to the chest.

The suspect is said to be the holder of a firearm permit for Platinum Security Company and carries a 9mm Taurus Pistol.

Leitch summoned a helicopter from Georgetown but succumbed before its arrival. He was subsequently taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The body was examined and a small circular wound was seen to his upper left chest, Police said.

The suspect was arrested at the Ogle Airport and has since handed over the said firearm to the Police.