By Sue-Ann Wayow

ALL pupils and staff of the St Francois Girls’ College in Belmont are safe following a shooting near the school’s compound.

On Wednesday, a gunman opened fire on three men, near the school in Belmont around 9 am.

One man, Allister George, 28 died instantly.

The Ministry of Education issued a media release on Wednesday evening stating following the incident, the school implemented a temporary lockdown to ensure the safety of all.

Coordination with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and local authorities, resulted in early dismissal.

Pupils were safely released to their parents, guardians, and authorised school transport, the ministry stated.

To support the pupils and staff affected by the incident, the Student Support Services Division, together with the TTPS Community Police Unit and the Victim and Support Unit, has been mobilised to provide counselling and psychosocial assistance.

The release stated, “The ministry commends the school administration, staff, and law enforcement for their prompt action and continued vigilance to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the school community.

“The ministry continues to work closely with the TTPS and will provide further updates as necessary. Parents and guardians are assured that student safety remains the Ministry of Education’s highest priority.”

The other two men shot in the incident were being treated at the Port of Spain General Hospital up to Wednesday night.