A 23-year-old man has been charged over the fatal shooting of Rihanna’s cousin.
Tavon Kaiseen Alleyne, 21, was walking through a track near his home in Saint Michael in Barbados on 26 December (17) when he was shot multiple times by a man who subsequently fled the scene. Alleyne was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Shawayne Dashawn Williams, 23, has been arrested and charged with the killing. According to Barbados Today, Williams appeared before Magistrate Douglas Frederick in the District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (03Jan18) and was remanded to prison. His next hearing is scheduled for 31 January.
Rihanna revealed the sad news and called for the end of gun violence on Instagram on 27 December by sharing pictures of herself with her cousin.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BdMLSMTDO5i/?taken-by=badgalriri
“RIP cousin… can’t believe it was just last night that I held you in my arms! never thought that would be the last time I felt the warmth in your body!!! Love you always man! #endgunviolence,” complete with crying face, praying hands and love heart emojis.
She also shared a video Alleyne took while he was walking along a road with his siblings. He said to the camera, “It’s nice to wake and see all of your brothers and sisters.”
In the caption, Rihanna wrote, “‘It’s nice to wake up’ Be grateful for life man. #RIPTavon @merka_95.”
Alleyne’s sister Tanella, who reportedly appeared in court, also wrote a tribute on Instagram, writing,
“All you wanted was love and a chance .. best man!!!! I would love to see you now my brother boy I love you Tavon… I watch you fix up the house for Christmas eat all my ham and beg me to take pics with you not knowing yesterday would be your last day!!”
