Body of Randolph Crawford retrieved from New River

Over the weekend, 27-year-old Randolph Crawford’s body was retrieved from the banks of the New River after he apparently drowned while fleeing gunfire. Last Thursday, Crawford jumped into the river during a shootout that is believed to have stemmed from a drug deal gone wrong. According to police, Crawford, along with 30-year-old Benigno Loria, and Sergio Hall were parked in a GMC Terrain SUV near the Pueblo Nuevo Ferry when they came under attack from gunmen inside a Ford Escape. In an effort to escape the hail of bullets, the men sped off, and Crawford exited the vehicle and dove head-first into the river. Loria and Hall, whom both received gunshot injuries, then managed to drive themselves to the Northern Medical Plaza for treatment. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Hilberto Romero, says the police are now in the process of completing their investigation and will be laying charges on all men involved in the broad daylight shoot-out.

ACP Hilberto Romero, Officer Commanding Eastern Division: “In reference to the shooting that occurred in Corozal we have Begino Loria, Sergio Hall, Akeem Trapp and Stanlos Oneal* who are still admitted at the hospital receiving treatment. The body of Randolph Crawford was found at the river the following day. The body was taken to the morgue where it now awaits a post mortem examination. This is an ongoing investigation and as soon as these persons are released from the hospital then charges will be levied upon them.”

Reporter: And the scope of the charges ? They ranging from what exactly ? 

ACP Hilberto Romero, Officer Commanding Eastern Division: “Those are the charges that we’re looking at, attempted murder and the injuries caused to the victims.”

Reporter: And in terms of the motive behind this shooting I know the Minister of Police stated that it was a drug related but is there any indication at this point that it’s too rivaling factions may be involved ?

ACP Hilberto Romero, Officer Commanding Eastern Division: “That is the information we have yes that it is drug related.”

Reporter: Sir I know this will be a tricky question but given the fact that there was a loss of life during this incident is there any indication at this point whether someone may be held accountable for Crawford’s death ?

ACP Hilberto Romero, Officer Commanding Eastern Division: “Yes that is a part of the investigation. At the conclusion of the post mortem we’ll look at the results and thereafter a determination will be made if charges should be levied against anyone.”