By Sue-Ann Wayow
A PATRON at a restaurant, allegedly the holder of a firearm user’s licence, shot another patron in the leg on Sunday morning.
In a public notice posted on Facebook, the owner of Rising Star Restaurant Grill and Hookah Lounge in San Fernando Chandraka Persay said that the 28-year-old woman was accidentally shot and video footage revealed what transpired.
Rising Star stated, “The person implicated (PI) was sitting at the southeastern corner of the bar accompanied with a female and friends having drinks. At approximately 3.44 am, everyone at the bar was stunned suddenly. The PI was seen adjusting an alleged firearm before the incident.
“As the events unfolded, it was discovered that a woman had been injured. She was shot in the leg while returning from the restroom, due to an accidental discharge of the PI licensed firearm.”
The restaurant stated that the injured woman was taken to hospital and the person implicated was taken into police custody.
Persad said, “Management is reminding patrons that no firearms are allowed within our premises, not even if you possess a valid Firearm User’s License. You may be subjected to screening prior to entry, for maintaining the safety of our staff and everyone at our place of business.”
Police reports stated that a contractor, 36, of Ridgewood Gardens, Golconda, a FUL holder and owner of an S/W 9mm pistol M&P was liming at the bar at a restaurant when he stood up off the barstool to adjust his clothing following which he heard a loud explosion.
He then observed the female patron a real estate agent from Phillipine, who was seated in the dining area located 15 to 20 feet to his rear, complaining of a burning sensation to her left upper thigh. She was taken to the San Fernando General Hospital where she is presently undergoing treatment.
Acting Cpl Griffith visited the scene where he took possession and made safe the firearm. He also recovered one spent shell casing.
PC Goulcharan and WPC Charles, CSI also responded. Acting Cpl Griffith is continuing enquiries.
On November 30, at a press conference, Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds announced that a complete audit of the legally distributed firearms in the country would be conducted which would give the government a better understanding of the weaponry possessed by the population.
