– Advertisement –
- Nation mourns popular Soca artiste
A wave of grief has swept across St. Kitts and Nevis following the fatal shooting of popular soca artiste Jermaine “Chubby” Clarke in the early hours of Sunday, April 5, in Keys Village.
Police confirmed that the 39-year-old, of College Street, Basseterre, was shot multiple times while seated in his vehicle shortly after 12:30 a.m. Officers responding to the incident found that Clarke had been attacked by “one or more armed assailants”. He was transported to the Joseph N. France General Hospital by private vehicle along with a female occupant, who sustained injuries during the incident but was not shot. Clarke later succumbed to his injuries.
The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has since launched a full investigation. The Crime Scene Unit processed the area and collected items of evidential value, while authorities are appealing to anyone with information to contact the nearest police station or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 707.
Clarke’s death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from across the political, cultural, and entertainment landscape, with many remembering him as a driving force behind Kollision Band International and a major contributor to the Federation’s carnival product.
The St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party, in an official statement, expressed “deep regret at the tragic news,” extending condolences to Clarke’s family, friends, bandmates, and the wider community. The Party described him as “a talented entertainer” whose contribution to the cultural life of the Federation “will not be forgotten,” while condemning violence and urging citizens to act responsibly, particularly over the Easter weekend.
The People’s Action Movement (PAM) also issued a statement of condolence, noting that Clarke’s passing has “deeply impacted the Federation” and urging young people to reject gun violence and “choose a better path.” The party added that while crime may fluctuate, “one life lost is one too many”. It also offered continued support to his grieving family.
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Marine Resources, Sports, Small Business, Entrepreneurship, Cooperatives and the Creative Economy, Hon. Samal Duggins, described Clarke as “more than an artist… a spirit, a presence, and a voice that brought joy, energy, and connection to so many.” He extended condolences to Clarke’s family, friends, band members, and supporters, urging citizens to reflect on the fragility of life and to cherish their loved ones.
Earlier tributes from the St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival Committee described Clarke as “a vital force” behind Kollision Band International, noting that under his influence, the band captured the Sugar Mas Road March title for the 2024–2025 season, and secured a runner-up finish the following year.
Political figures also joined in mourning. Deputy Leader of the People’s Labour Party, Dameon Lawrence, described Clarke as a childhood friend “whose energy was undeniable” and whose passion for music helped shape the band’s rise from humble beginnings.
“It’s sad to lose him so young. It is even worse to lose him to violence,” Lawrence said, calling for an end to the cycle of crime and urging citizens to choose peace.
Former Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris described Clarke as “a cultural force” whose music brought joy and unity to the nation, while calling for collective action to address violent crime.
Clarke, who was reportedly leaving a performance in Keys at the time of the incident, is being remembered not only as a talented performer but also as a devoted father, son, and community figure whose influence extended far beyond the stage.
As tributes continue to pour in, his death stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing impact of violent crime in the Federation, with many calling for justice and renewed efforts to ensure public safety.
Police say investigations are ongoing and further updates will be provided as they become available.
– Advertisement –
