The murder trial of Jahciba Shoy, accused in the May 2023 shooting death of Syrian national Roudi Shmaly, continued in the High Court this week, with jurors hearing a firsthand account of the moments leading up to the killing. According to Antigua Observer, the witness testimony was delivered before Justice John Spencer and a jury of six women and five men.
Shoy faces charges of murder and aggravated robbery in connection with the shooting at the Pick 'n Mix Mart on Desouza Road. He has been on remand since his arrest and is represented by attorney Wendel Alexander.
A witness who took the stand described entering the shop to make a purchase when a man passed her and approached the cashier. She told the court the man was of average height, wore a grey hoodie with multiple colours, and carried a small handgun she described as appearing "well shine like a new brand car rim."
The witness said she was standing in front of the cashier when the man placed the gun to the cashier's neck. She then exited the shop and went to a nearby restaurant, where she warned a Syrian man that a gunman was inside, before screaming to draw attention from passersby.
Shortly after, she told the court, she heard two loud gunshots. She flagged down a passing police vehicle and called for an ambulance. Upon returning to the scene, she said she found the Syrian man on the ground.
Under cross-examination, the witness acknowledged she did not see the gunman's face but confirmed she watched him flee in the direction of Martin's Village Road before police arrived. She said she was unable to describe his complexion.
The trial continues.
