A 35-year-old man is dead and two suspects are in custody following one of the most horrifying acts of violence recorded in Antigua and Barbuda so far this year — a broad daylight killing in the Mock Pond community near All Saints that was witnessed by multiple bystanders who reportedly pleaded with the attackers to stop.
Sheldon Dias was found with multiple wounds following an altercation involving two other individuals shortly before noon on Friday. Officers who responded to the scene discovered Dias lying at the rear of a yard. A medical doctor later visited the location and pronounced him dead at 1:45 p.m.
A Killing That Witnesses Will Not Forget
Witnesses said Dias was attacked with a cutlass and a knife before attempting to escape. According to accounts from the scene, he ran from his attackers and sought refuge in a nearby yard. However, the violence allegedly continued after he entered the property. Several people who witnessed the incident said they watched in horror as Dias pleaded for his life while others begged the attackers to stop. Some alleged that threats were made against anyone who tried to intervene.
By the time the attack ended, Dias had sustained extensive injuries, including severe wounds to his head and hand. Emergency responders were called, but he succumbed to his injuries.
Two Arrested in Relation to the Murder
Police confirmed that a man and a woman were subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder. Both remain in custody while investigators continue their inquiries. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under active investigation.
The killing stunned residents in the community, where news of Dias’ death spread quickly throughout the day. In a statement, the Police Administration extended condolences to Dias’ family as they grapple with the loss of their loved one.
A Week of Alarming Violence
The death of Sheldon Dias caps a deeply troubling week for public safety in Antigua and Barbuda. On the same day, a young man was stabbed outside a phone store on St. Mary’s Street and two Russian sailors were beaten and robbed in the early hours on Popeshead Street. The wave of violent incidents — occurring within hours of each other — has intensified public demand for urgent and visible action from law enforcement and government.
The Royal Police Force is urging anyone who witnessed the Mock Pond attack or who has information that could assist the murder investigation to contact the Serious Crimes Unit at 462-3913 or 462-3914. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Crimestoppers at 800-TIPS (8477).
