3 spent shells, 1 live 9mm round found at scene

…GPA calls for thorough probe

Hours after a lone gunman had reportedly opened fire on Guyanese journalist Travis Chase, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) said it has launched an investigation into the incident.
In detailing the terrifying encounter, Chase, a resident of Durban Street Georgetown, said he had parked his white Toyota Premio motorcar, PVV 8453, on the western side of the road, facing south, in front of his residence, and had gone inside to collect a shopping list from his aunt, when he heard several loud explosions, suspected to be gunshots, emanating from the direction of his car.
He said that upon inspecting his vehicle, he discovered three bullet holes on the left rear fender.
Police, in a statement, said investigators discovered three 9mm spent shells and one live 9mm round at the scene.
As the investigation unfolds, several individuals are being questioned. This alarming incident marks the second attempt on Chase’s life.
In 2020, his black Honda CRV was set ablaze in the compound of the Public Service Ministry. CCTV footage revealed an intruder scaling the fence before the vehicle erupted in flames.
Chase, in an interview with reporters on Monday evening, said he believes his journalistic style may have provoked animosity.
“This is not the first attempt on my life. The last time they burnt my car, and some years ago, the Police received intelligence that there was a hit on my head,” Chase disclosed.
He strongly believes that his fearless pursuit of truth might be the cause behind such attacks.
“…if I am to attribute anything to this execution attempt, it would be my styling of reporting. It can’t be anything else…I stand for the truth, and am not scared and will back down from this,” he said.

Thorough probe
Following this development, the Guyana Press Association (GPA) called for a thorough investigation into this disturbing incident. In a statement, the GPA has urged authorities to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice, and has emphasised the importance of journalists being allowed to work without threats to their lives and livelihoods.
The GPA said it has also notified regional and international partners of this concerning development. (G9)