HONORABLE SEND-OFF FOR SLAIN CHICAGO COP

Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Officers usher the American Flag-draped casket of slain Chicago Police Deputy Shamone Duncan, at the Howard Hamilton International Airport on Providenciales.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force yesterday (January 28) paid respect to fallen Cook County Sheriff’s Deputy Shamone Duncan at a ceremony at the Howard Hamilton International Airport, from which her remains were flown to her to the United States.

Ms Duncan, 50, tragically lost her life on January 18 while spending time with family and friends in the TCI, courtesy of a gunman who fired in the direction of a night spot, which was a patron.  

In a heartfelt display of solidarity, officers saluted and escorted her body to a chartered plane bound for Chicago, ensuring she was sent home with dignity and respect.

Duncan’s sister, Eshawn Spencer greets Acting Assistant Commissioner Dwight Gardiner (right) and Deputy Commissioner Adams, while other officials, including Experience TCI.

Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams said, “Though officers may not have personally known Deputy Duncan, we stood united in honouring her as a fellow officer who, like us, took an oath to protect and serve. The bond of law enforcement transcends borders, and this moment was a testament to the deep mutual respect shared among those in uniform as law enforcers.”

Pastor Wilbert Jennings, Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Chaplain speak a word over the American Flag-covered casket bearing the remains of slain Chicago Deputy Shamone Duncan. Looking on Ms Duncan’s Sister Eshawn Spencer.

The RTCIPF Chaplain, Pastor Wilbert Jennings, offered words of comfort and read a scripture, reminding those gathered of the strength and sacrifice that define their calling. Among the attendees were Duncan’s sister, Eshawn Spencer, Deputy Commissioner Adams, Acting Deputy Commissioner Kendall Grant, Acting Assistant Commissioner Dwight Gardiner, Experience TCI Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich-Phillips, and officers of the Force—all standing in solemn reflection.

The police said the January 18 incident, which also claimed the life of local taxi driver Dario Stubbs, remains under active investigation, pointing out that the force urgently seeks the public's assistance.

Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Officer march with the body of slain police officer Shamone Duncan, towards the plane that would fly her remains back to Chicago.

“Please come forward if you were driving along Grace Bay Road, specifically from Aziza’s Restaurant to the Seven Stars Roundabout, and have dashcam footage between 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.,” the police pleaded, adding, “If you were in the vicinity during this time or have any information, no matter how small, your input could be vital to solving this case. Please get in touch with the Serious Crime Unit at 2311842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, or you can also anonymously share information via the Crime Stoppers P3 app.”