NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC – Prime Minister Phillip Davis says he has called for a “full and transparent investigation” into two separate fatal incidents involving off-duty police officers over the last weekend.
Davis, in a statement, said that one matter concerns the “tragic death” of an American national. At the same time, the second is a result of a confrontation “in which, according to the early police account, a man allegedly attacked an officer”.
Prime Minister Davis said that each case must be investigated on its own facts, extending condolences to the family and friends of those involved.
“I have asked for a full and transparent investigation, and where the evidence supports criminal charges, the law must move swiftly. The badge can never place anyone above the law.
“This moment also requires action beyond these cases. We must review the rules governing off-duty carriage of firearms, strengthen de-escalation standards, and examine less-lethal options for our law enforcement agencies so officers have stronger tools to protect life wherever possible,” Prime Minister Davis added.
In the first incident, American Cody Castillo was shot and killed by an off-duty officer on Saturday evening, with initial police reports indicating that an altercation began inside Da Plantation Bar and Grill, and continued outside the establishment.
The off-duty officer said one of the men involved in the altercation entered his vehicle and drove it “in a threatening manner” toward the officer. The officer then drew his weapon and fired at the driver, killing him, claiming that he was in fear for his life.
Video footage captured by an onlooker depicted Castillo lying wounded on the ground beside his vehicle.
The incident sparked outrage from Bahamian residents and family and loved ones of Castillo, who described the killing as senseless, as well as an urgent call for justice from the United States Embassy in Nassau.
A GoFundMe page was created to support Castillo’s pregnant wife, Makayla, who was expecting to welcome a baby boy in August.
The second incident took place on Monday when an officer shot and killed a man who he said attacked him with a cutlass.
Members of the public and human rights activists have demanded a transparent investigation.
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