The Tribune

A 17-year-old boy wanted in connection with a recent murder has been recaptured after escaping from the Princess Margaret Hospital last month.

The teenager was arrested around 6pm on Friday, July 13 in eastern New Providence. He escaped on Thursday, June 28 at 3.30am. The Tribune has withheld his identity because he is a minor.

Hospital sources said the suspect was receiving medical treatment for head injuries on Male Surgical Ward 1. He then managed to steal a handcuff key from the sleeping officer who was guarding him, the source said.

The boy is wanted fore questioning in connection with the death of 22-year-old Javaughn Samuels, who was stabbed several times in his chest with a long kitchen knife during an argument at Union Village. Samuels was taken to hospital by a private vehicle where he later died.

Police believe the stabbing was the result of an argument over a woman.

This escape came almost three weeks after police constable Herman Pinder was shot and critically injured at PMH by a prisoner who disarmed him after asking that his cuffs be released so that he could use the bathroom. Police report that after the prisoner’s handcuffs were unlocked, the officer was shot.

Reginald Chase, 25, was accused of the shooting. Hours later he was captured on Bimini Avenue. Police said he has since been charged with attempted murder.

At the time, Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade said the force would change its policy regarding the transport of suspects to and from the hospital.

Mr Greenslade said that the new procedure would ensure that no officer would have to transport suspects alone. Despite a short-staffed force, the commissioner said back-up would be made available and officers would be stationed at the hospital.