The Carapichaima RC Primary School erected a memorial for nine-year-old Jomol Modeste who was shot dead on Saturday, October 15 while fleeing gunshots near a basketball court at Africa Grounds, Enterprise, Chaguanas. The memorial was set up on Monday with a photo of Modeste in his school uniform.
Chief Executive Officer of the Catholic Education Board of Management (CEBM) Sharon Mangroo said the Board is saddened at Modeste’s death, “more so the circumstances”.
The CEBM contacted the school Principal Thomas Metivier, after receiving the news. The CEBM extended condolences to Modeste’s family. Parish Priest Fr Gerard Bernier conducted a memorial service at the school today.
Modeste was fondly remembered by his Standard Two teacher Marva Romain and classmates as “a gem”. The Catholic News was told, “He was well-mannered, respectful, jovial, loved by his classmates, helpful and willing to share his snacks with others.” He was always smiling. “Jomol and his lovely smile will surely be missed.”
Children have been injured or killed this year as a result of gun violence across the country. On August 16, two boys ages 9 and 11 were injured when shots were fired at persons congregating at a basketball court in Mon Repos, Morvant. The 9-year-old was shot in the head while he and other children were practicing for a football game. A man was killed at the scene.
Two children, ages three and six were wounded September 14 while attending a wake in Sangre Grande. Five adults were also shot.
An eight-year-old boy was among four victims September 18 after a man shot at persons liming in the yard of a house in Kelly Village, Caroni. A 24-year-old man died.
A Standard Three student of the Siparia RC School was hurt on September 19 when a bullet grazed his face close to his right eye during a shootout between police and the bandits who robbed Pennywise, La Romaine. Four persons linked to the robbery were killed by police and two security guards died from gunshots during the hold-up. A third was hospitalised in serious condition.