The Bermuda Police Service can confirm it has begun a murder investigation into the death of an eighteen-year-old male, whose lifeless body was found at Southside earlier today (Wednesday, 6th April 2022).

A passer-by contacted police shortly after 6:30 this morning and reported there was an unresponsive male lying near the roundabout on the roadway leading to Clearwater Beach.

Police attended the scene and located the body, which bore confirmed gunshot wounds.

Acting Detective Inspector Jason Smith, of the Serious Crime Unit said, “There was forensic evidence recovered at the scene to confirm the male was shot near where his body was found. We are appealing for anyone who may have heard any suspicious noises or seen anyone acting in a suspicious manner in the area of Tommy Fox Road or near the Gulfstream residences at Southside, between 11:00 p.m. on Tuesday 5th April 2022 and the early hours of today, Wednesday 6th April, 2022, to please get in contact with us.”

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call Mr. Smith on 717-0864. You may also call 211, the main police number 295-0011, or, Bermuda Crime Stoppers on 800-8477. Alternatively, you may also share any information you might have regarding this incident, by speaking with a police officer with whom you are familiar.

Mr. Smith added, “Yet another young man has been taken away from us and again by means of a senseless act of violence. I urge the public to come forward and tell us what you know, to not only help bring whomever is responsible to justice, but also to bring closure to the family of this young man, who are left to mourn his passing.”

Update: Thursday, 7th April - Investigation ongoing regarding the murder of 18-year-old Laje Franklin.

Update: Thursday, 14th April - Arrest made in connection with the murder of Laje Franklin.