UPDATE: Businessman in Custody Following Fatal Shooting of Policeman

October 23 2025

Police have confirmed that the fatal shooting earlier today (Thursday) at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, which claimed the life of 35-year-old Police Lance Corporal Richard Marvin Hayes, is now the subject of an active murder investigation.

The suspect, a 37-year-old businessman of Crane Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara, who operates a cellphone stall at the stelling, has since been taken into custody. His licensed .32 Taurus pistol and firearm license were seized as part of the ongoing investigation.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Hayes, who was attached to the Impact Base at Brickdam Police Station, visited the businessman’s stall on Wednesday to inquire about purchasing cellphones and returned this morning to complete the transaction.

According to police reports, an argument broke out between the two men, during which Hayes allegedly threw a cellphone heater gun at the suspect, hitting him in the chest. The businessman then reportedly drew his firearm and discharged a single round, striking Hayes in the right side of his chest.

The injured Lance Corporal was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital by his brother, who operates a barbershop nearby, but succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.

Police have confirmed that the suspect has been processed for gunshot residue testing and remains in custody as investigations continue.

Hayes, of Lot 13 School Street, Vreed-en-Hoop, was reportedly in partial uniform at the time of the incident.