Michael’s Village — A tight-knit community in Antigua and Barbuda was left reeling after a chilling late-night shooting that claimed the life of 42-year-old Nikisha Rose and left a man wounded on Friday, January 23. The violence unfolded near the G&E Parking Lot just after 10:30 p.m., turning what should have been an ordinary night into tragedy.
Friends and neighbours could scarcely believe the news Saturday morning. Police say Rose and a male companion were driving together when someone unknown suddenly opened fire on their vehicle. Both were hit with gunshot wounds while still inside the car.
Emergency responders rushed the victims to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Doctors worked urgently to save Rose, but she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at about 11:21 p.m. The man with her, also from Gray’s Farm, remains in hospital. Officials describe his condition as stable.
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has called the shooting a targeted attack, noting that the gunfire was directed at the vehicle itself. Detectives are working to figure out what led up to the attack, but so far they have not released any information about suspects, motive, or whether the victims were followed before arriving in Michael’s Village.
Residents say the timing and location — a public spot late at night — have shaken many who thought the area was relatively safe after dark. People who knew Rose describe her as warm-hearted and active in her community. The shock of losing a local woman in such violent fashion has stirred grief and anxiety across the neighbourhood.
Investigators are now piecing together the moments before the shooting. They’re reviewing footage from nearby cameras and talking with anyone who might have seen or heard anything unusual around the G&E Parking Lot that night. Police are appealing for help, urging anyone with information to reach out.
As the investigation continues, family members and friends are planning gatherings to remember Rose and support the wounded man. The community is waiting for answers — and for a sense of safety to return.
