Suspect, 18, arrested for fatal shooting of girl, 16

An 18-year-old man was arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Reyna Depeazer, the 16-year-old girl who was struck by a stray bullet during a confrontation at Mango Lane, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown on Monday night.

Police Headquarters said the suspect, Travel Daniels Hammer, a resident of Trench Road, East La Penitence, was taken into custody around 01:00 hrs on Tuesday.

He was intercepted on Mandela Avenue in a Toyota fielder wagon, PYY 2896. That was the same vehicle that was reportedly used in the shooting.

Investigations revealed that Reyna and another teenager were sitting on a motorcycle liming, when the suspect allegedly pulled up in the vehicle, exited with a handgun, and approached another man who was also on a motorcycle nearby.

A verbal altercation reportedly ensued between the suspect and the man during which the suspect allegedly discharged a single round, Police said.

The bullet struck Reyna in the neck, causing her to collapse.

She was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.

Depeazer succumbed to her injuries on Wednesday afternoon.

Following Hammer’s arrest, police conducted searches on his person, vehicle, and residence but were unable to recover the firearm used in the shooting.

Police said his hands were swabbed for gunpowder residue and the vehicle was impounded as the investigation continues.

Depeazer family is demanding justice. They are calling for a thorough investigation to be conducted in the shooting.