Three people died and 10 others sustained injuries in a mass shooting at a nightclub in the Turks and Caicos Islands early Sunday morning, marking what officials described as the British territory’s first mass shooting in recent history. The attack occurred at approximately 2:57 a.m. on July 27, 2025, at the Island Hookah Lounge on Leeward Highway in Providenciales.
Police Commissioner Fitz Bailey indicated that at least four suspects participated in the shooting, with CCTV footage revealing the attackers were armed with high-powered weapons. No arrests have been made as of Tuesday. Three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while 10 others were transported to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre with injuries ranging from minor to serious conditions.
Seven victims remained hospitalized following the attack, with one person listed in serious condition. Two of the injured were airlifted overseas for advanced medical treatment. The local hospital was placed on lockdown to protect the victims and secure the scene during the emergency response.
Premier Charles Washington Misick connected the shooting to gang-related violence during a press conference held Sunday. He expressed that much of the criminal activity appears concentrated within Haitian communities on the islands. Misick stated, “What is happening here is unlike anything we’ve ever seen before.”
The Premier appealed directly to Haitian residents and community leaders, urging cooperation with law enforcement to identify how illegal firearms are entering the territory. He emphasized that individuals within the community possess knowledge about violent criminals and weapons smuggling operations. Misick clarified his remarks were not directed at law-abiding Haitian residents but focused on those involved in or facilitating criminal activities.
Acting Governor Anya Williams declared the incident a national security critical event, activating all relevant protocols. She reported contacting the Governor and informing the United Kingdom of the situation, while also reaching out to the National Crime Agency for additional support.
Commissioner Bailey characterized the attack as indiscriminate violence intended to incite fear among residents and visitors. He assured the public that police and partner agencies would maintain a heightened visible presence across the islands to ensure safety. The Commissioner extended condolences to affected families and communities while reaffirming the commitment to serve justice.
Authorities suspect the shooting stems from inter-gang or intra-gang conflicts, with preliminary investigations focusing on Haitian gang activity. The motive for the attack remains under investigation as police continue gathering evidence and reviewing surveillance footage from the scene.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force condemned the shooting in an official statement, emphasizing the willingness of criminals to commit serious acts of violence against citizens, residents, and visitors. The force urged anyone with information to partner with law enforcement in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
A $10,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspects involved in the shooting. The police encouraged community members to come forward through official channels or anonymously via Crimestoppers with any relevant details about the incident.
The shooting occurred during a period when the islands are implementing stricter measures against illegal immigration. An estimated 10,900 Haitians live in the Turks and Caicos Islands, representing approximately one-third of the territory’s total population. Around 80 percent of the Haitian population resides on Providenciales, with 20 percent holding permanent residency status according to United Nations humanitarian affairs office data.
Bailey noted that prior to the recent violence, the territory had experienced a 30 percent reduction in murders compared to previous periods. However, the mass shooting and a recent double homicide involving two brothers significantly undermined those positive trends. As of July 27, 2025, the country’s murder count reached 22.
Premier Misick warned that the government would target not only the perpetrators but also anyone facilitating or protecting them. He announced that new resources would be directed to law enforcement to ensure offenders are captured and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The State Department previously issued a Level 2 travel advisory in March, warning travelers to exercise increased caution in the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime concerns. The advisory recommended visitors avoid walking alone at night, not answer doors unless expecting guests, and avoid physical resistance during robbery attempts.
