A Cook County sheriff’s deputy was among two people killed in a shooting in Turks and Caicos while on vacation late Saturday, police said.
Cook County Deputy Shamone Duncan, 50, died after being struck by a stray bullet, according to her family.
Vacation Ending in Tragedy
What we know:
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force responded to two deadly shootings around 10 p.m. Saturday near Aziza Restaurant & Lounge in Providenciales on Grace Bay Road.
Officers received reports of gunfire near the bar and when they arrived, they found three people injured at the scene.
One victim was pronounced dead on site, another died at the hospital, and a third victim, a 29-year-old man, is receiving further treatment, authorities said.
Deputy Duncan, with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, was identified as one of the deceased victims. The other victim was identified as Dario Stubbs, 30, a resident of Turks and Caicos, police said.
Duncan was celebrating her sister’s birthday at a rooftop bar when she was struck by a stray bullet, her family said. According to a report from the Turks & Caicos Sun, Duncan was not the intended target of the shooting.
“Our Hearts Are Broken”
What they’re saying:
“The deceased have been identified as Shamone Duncan, 50, a visitor from the United States and Dario Stubbs, 30, a TCI (Turks and Caicos) resident. There is no evidence to suggest that Ms Duncan, Mr Stubbs or the wounded victim were the targets of this incident. I wish to take this opportunity to extend my deepest condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased. The RT&CIPF will continue to provide victim support resources to those devastated by these incidents. We condemn this violence and will remain resolute in our pursuit of the person(s) responsible for this despicable act,” a statement from Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force said.
“Our hearts are broken for the family of Deputy Shamone Duncan who was killed on Jan. 18 while on vacation. She was a 20-year veteran of the Cook County Department of Corrections and was currently assigned to Cermak Health Services. We are in contact with her family to provide any support they need during this difficult time and are supporting her colleagues as they process this terrible news. We refer any questions regarding the investigation into Deputy Duncan’s death to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force,” the Cook County Sheriff’s Office said.
“It is with unimaginable sorrow that we, the family of Sheriff Shamone A. Duncan, announce her tragic passing on January 18th, 2025. While on the rooftop of Aziza Restaurant & Lounge in Turks and Caicos, celebrating her sister’s birthday, Shamone was tragically struck by a stray bullet during a senseless act of gun violence. She was only 50 years old.
“Shamone was a proud native of Chicago, born and raised in the city she loved and served tirelessly. A shining example of excellence, she was a proud Eastern Star, exemplifying her deep commitment to faith, service, and community. Her 21 years of service as Cook County Sheriff were a testament to her unwavering dedication to justice and her passion for protecting others. She was a beacon of strength, compassion, and leadership, touching countless lives in her community and beyond.
“Above all, Shamone was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her loving son and her cherished granddaughter, who were the lights of her life. Her family was her greatest joy, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
“As we grapple with this devastating loss, we ask for privacy and prayers during this challenging time. We hope that Shamone’s legacy of service, strength, and love will continue to inspire others to work for a better, safer world.
“Details of her memorial service will be shared in the coming days. We thank everyone for their outpouring of support and condolences as we mourn the loss of an extraordinary woman, mother, and leader.
“May Sheriff Shamone A. Duncan’s memory live on in our hearts forever.
“With gratitude, the family of Shamone Duncan”
What we don’t know:
Police have not released further details about what occurred during the shootings or the suspects involved.
At last check, no arrests have been made.
The backstory:
Duncan was a “devoted mother, grandmother, and Eastern Star” and she has served as a Cook County deputy for 21 years, her family said.
She is survived by her son and granddaughter.
What’s next:
Authorities are asking anyone who was in the area of the shooting to come forward with information, video footage, or anything that may assist in the investigation.
Further details have not been released, and the investigation is ongoing by the U.S. Embassy in Nassau and authorities in Turks and Caicos.
Duncan’s family said memorial service plans will be announced in the coming days.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.