News of the suspected suicide of a prominent businessman has sent shockwaves throughout the parish of Westmoreland.
The deceased has been identified as 45-year-old Craig Chong, a resident of South Sea Park in Whitehouse, who owned and operated several hardware stores across the parish.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred sometime around 11:15 p.m. on Thursday along the Belmont main road.
According to police reports, residents in the area reported hearing a loud explosion followed shortly after by what sounded like a crashing noise. The police were alerted and responded to the scene.
Upon their arrival, officers reportedly discovered a white 2017 Ford Everest motor vehicle off the roadway in nearby bushes. Chong was found seated in the driver’s seat of the vehicle, dressed in a black merino shirt, blue jeans and grey sneakers.
Investigators observed what appeared to be a gunshot wound to the right side of his head. His licensed firearm, a Walther 9mm pistol, was later handed over to the police by residents. The weapon reportedly contained a loaded magazine with 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition, along with an additional magazine carrying 15 rounds.
Chong was transported to the Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital where he later died while undergoing treatment.
Police sources say that initial observations at the scene did not reveal any signs of a struggle and no items appeared to be missing from the vehicle. Additionally, the doors of the motor vehicle were reportedly locked, leading investigators to believe that foul play is not suspected at this time.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that Chong’s business was among those selected to supply building materials to persons affected by Hurricane Melissa through the Government’s ROOF housing assistance programme.