Man killed in fight for State lands

AN ARGUMENT over the boundary separating the land between two Point Fortin neighbours ended in tragedy, with one being killed and the other detained by police for the killing. Martin Francis, 30, of Roberts Lane, Cap-de-Ville, died after being slashed across his abdomen during an altercation that resulted from an ongoing feud, police said. Francis succumbed to the wound at San Fernando General Hospital (SFGH) on Saturday night, less than 12 hours after the incident. Police said a 39-year-old truck driver, also of Roberts Lane, surrendered himself to the police about one hour later.

According to police reports, Francis and his alleged killer, both of whom live on State lands, were quarrelling about the boundary between their homes at 9 am. Francis had been living on the property for almost two years, police said, while the suspect was a resident for more than 18 years. The argument escalated into violence when the truck driver pulled out a knife and slashed Francis across his abdomen. Neighbours rushed to Francis’ side and took him to the Point Fortin Area Hospital for treatment. Hospital officials transferred him to the SFGH where he died at 6 pm. Acting Cpl Garcia of the Homicide Division (South) is continuing investigations.