Murder victim or traffic fatality? Family says one thing, Police say another
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POLICE say Exuma native Preston Ferguson (inset) died in a car accident. His family say that theory doesn't fit with the evidence and say his body was found sitting on top of a pile of smashed glass in the driver's seat with no glass whatsoever on top of his body.
Published On:Tuesday, September 22, 2009
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Tribune Staff Reporter
nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net
DISTRAUGHT family members of Preston Ferguson say that they are certain he was murdered and blame police for mishandling the investigation into his death.
Ferguson, 38, a resident of Exuma and father of one, was found dead in a truck on the side of the road in the area of Ocean Addition East, near the Forest, Exuma, on the morning of August 2. Police initially suspected that he had run off the road and hit a utility pole, however, his family believes the accident was "staged."
They claim they know of an individual with a motive to kill Preston. According to his sister, Eloise Moxey, it is believed that her brother was having an affair with a married woman.
"He promised my brother he was going to kill him," Mrs Moxey alleged.
According to Preston's family, the minimal damage to the vehicle he was found in was not consistent with his massive injury and that the impact could not have caused his death. According to Mr Ferguson's family, police had raised the theory that Mr Ferguson had perhaps stuck his head out of the truck's window to spit and hit his head on the lamp pole. The second theory was that Mr Ferguson had fallen asleep and his head fell out of the window.
Merv Johnson who had been with his uncle earlier that night said that Mr Ferguson was found sitting upright in the driver's seat of the truck with his head slumped back.
"That was the only visible mark of any kind of trauma to him. There wasn't any visible damage to the truck. The front of the truck was intact, the windshield was intact, the only damage was a scrape to the driver's side of the truck and they were saying that's what killed him," Mr Johnson said.
The family also highlighted the fact that most of the blood was found on the passenger side. "The only thing broken on the truck is the side mirror, not one single drop of blood on the driver's side," Mrs Moxey said. She also noted that no broken glass was found on her brother's body but was found mainly on the passenger seat.
"The window was broken out. It's obvious that the glass was up and was hit from the outside to look like an accident because most of the glass is on the passenger side. He was sitting on glass. "How could he sit on glass if the glass was broken on impact?" Mrs Ferguson wanted to know. She also noted that the air conditioning was left on which further suggested that the windows had been up. The family claims that their evidence suggests that Mr Ferguson was the victim of murder.
"The police are deeming this an accident, but we know that this is a murder and we have evidence to substantiate our claim that it was a murder," Mrs Moxey alleged. According to Mr Ferguson's family, the deceased was last seen leaving Rolleville with his female friend.
"She picked him up as she was leaving Rolleville and he drove with her supposedly back to his place. He said he was going home; he had no reason to come back out," Mr Ferguson's nephew said.
Mrs Moxey said that she has met with Commissioner of Police Reginald Ferguson regarding the matter and was recently informed that an investigation is continuing and that "experts are conducting a re-enactment of the accident." Mrs Moxey said she also met with National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest.
Commissioner Ferguson told The Tribune, "We are conducting a thorough investigation into this matter. I am aware of the suspicions as to how he may have died. We have been in touch with his family and will have a meeting very soon to inform them of our findings."
"Someone drove that vehicle to where they staged this and drove it up against the lamp post. What concerns us is the way this was handled by police," Mrs Moxey said.
"They have gotten rid of every single piece of evidence. They sent the truck back to Grand Isles because my brother worked in the landscaping department at Grand Isles. That was a company truck. That's the reason he didn't go out in the truck that night."
Mr Ferguson's family is also wondering whatever became of his clothing and hair samples or DNA that could be extracted from them. They say that the individual they suspect has not as yet been questioned by police. They also say that the woman who was the last person to be seen with him has not been questioned either. The family says that they have been awaiting the results of a toxicology report for about a month.
"He left to go home that night. He left with a certain lady who was supposed to be taking him home. The next morning he is dead and who shows up at the door? This lady with her husband to say that he is dead," Mrs Moxey said.
Mr Ferguson who was employed at Grand Isle Villas as a Landscaping Supervisor was the youngest of 12 children. He was laid to rest August 21. He is survived by his son, Preston Jr.
*For legal reasons, The Tribune cannot allow posts accusing individuals of a crime to remain on this site. Any comments naming possible suspects will be removed immediately. Please be aware that you can be held legally accountable if we do not do this.
Reader Comments - 167 Total
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Posted By: Justice At its Best On: 3/20/2010
Title: Astonished***
Have we as Bahamians lost our moral mentality? I have read each comment posted, stating the out pouring love for Preston but let us be realistic....he was playing with fire. The article CLEARLY states that he had an affair with a married woman, yet we have commentators saying "He didn't do nobody nothing" and passing along threats to the "alleged murders?" I have a problem when we as Bahamians look at things ONE-SIDED. While it is unfortunate someone has lost of like (whether by accident or murder) let us face the facts, you live by the sword, you die by the sword. We are all hurting due to Prestons death, but lets not take our hatred out on somebody until there is substantial proof to do so. Yes, I say pressure the police to do their jobs effectly but let us not become consumed by our witch hunt that will BLIND SIGHT us to Preston's activities. WHAT HE WAS DOING WAS WRONG! And for those bible-thumpers who claiming vengence.....check the Ten Commandments on that one.
Posted By: Preston's Schoolmate & Friend On: 3/12/2010
Title: It's "NOT" Dead
I don't want the public, the Bahamian police and/or Preston's murderer (who is roaming around Eleuthera, in particular Harbour Island) to believe that this matter is dead....I know the Ferguson family and they don't give up easily. When you touch one, you touch ALL and Preston was their "baby" brother, the last of twelve beautiful children. Fergusons, I am praying for you all. Stay together and fight, fight, for justice for Preston, my school friend. I feel your pain. The police that came on the scene when Preston's body was found messed up big time and should hang their heads in shame. God is not asleep, We will get justice for Preston!!!
Posted By: The Exumian next door. On: 2/6/2010
Title: Laid Back Police Force
The Bahamian Police Force is full of ignorant "laid back" individulals who lack the investigative skills necessary to solve the many crimes that rock our little nation. When are we gonna educate our people to perform the skills necessary to bring crimnals to justice? Too many murderers walk our streets because they now realize if there is one place you can commit a crime with a greater probability of walking free, is the BAHAMAS, because there isn't anyone trained enough to bring you to justice. Wake up Bahamians! Fight for justice for your loved ones. I applaud Preston's family for raising awareness into how inadequate our justice system is. I too believe Preston's death was MURDER, not an accident.
Posted By: Mrs. Morris On: 12/2/2009
Title: Cover Up
Surely the police didnot handle this case like they should have. Whoever heard of the police getting rid of evidence such as DNA and other things that could help solve a case. I agree with the sister, he was murdered by his lover's boyfriend.
Posted By: Preston's special friend On: 11/2/2009
Title: To My Friend 'Preston"
All I can say is the wrong family has been tampered with. The nicest set of people you want to know because they do not bother anyone, but God forbid if you get on their wrong side.....please pray to exchange places with Preston cause they will wear you A... out until they get what thye want. I agree, they should just sue the police force. They called it an accident, we all know it is MUDERER, so Ferguson family, get your private investigators, do what you have to do, sue these sorry police and you alln take a family cruise around the world ont he Bahamad Government. The lousy officers are getting paid tax payers money for nothing, so sue them and you all live large. It was really conforting to see how well you all put Preston down. All jamiacans should be shot. I love the spirit of you folks. I always knew that you all were decent people, but is is so sad to know that if you all do not push to get at coroner's date, Preston's death will go like many others whose family just simply did not have the courage to do what you are doing. You all please keep fighting for my friend's sake. May Preston rest in peace. I really miss him, but God knows all things.
Posted By: A concerned Exumian On: 11/2/2009
Title: Shame, Shame, Shame
It is really sad to see what is happening with this MURDER. MH and his wife must really be laughing at these so called police to see how dumb and stupid they really are. Sommissioner of Police...where are YOUR investigative skills? If the lil rookies you all send out to de these investigations cannot do it, why don't you all who know better do better and coach these chcken in the bag police? I cry shame on you all for the way this was handled and is still being handled. The entire Exuma Island knows what has happened, you all were fed information and you refused to act upon it. Picking up those two murderers, and their telling you all bull sh.... you were all satisfied with that and let them go. Boy they are really laughing at you all. Watch out this family does not sue the RBPF...who can't use some extra $$$$ with this recession going on and remember..Preston did leave a nine year old son behind who has to go to school, eat, and be cared for on a daily basis. Watch out for a law suit...... Words of encouragement. Get on this case and do so before it is too late and cause you all some more shame.
Posted By: TANEY On: 10/31/2009
Title: DO things proper
To the good FERGUSON FAMILY there is a god up above and he see what happen .Now(there are some very good police in this country) and there are some police who donot care about the honest people.All they care abour how many sweet heart they can have on every corner.Or as soon as they hear a poor man get lock up or they lock them up or cost them to get lock up. They will start sweet hearting there wifes or there girl freind.And most time they are so caught up in the sweet heart ring they cannot do there job properly.Especillay on these island and for sure in nassau.SWEET HEARTING AND LAW DONNOT WORK.
Posted By: A Friend of Preston On: 10/30/2009
Title: "Justice will come" Be encouraged.
I say to the family of Preston, who was a good friend to me, to be encouraged. Its not over until it's over. The good Lord is not asleep. For the way he was "murdered" the Murderers will Pay and pay dearly. As a family you must stick together to get through this. I heard that the Police has turn the investigation over to the coroner. If this is the case, you must move immediately to get an early date for this coroners inquest. Sad but Preston's body undoubtedly will have to be exhumed in order to do a more thorough examination. Time is of much importance. All the best in your quest for JUSTICE and I pray that those responsible be punished accordingly.
Posted By: A concern Bahamian (Exumian) On: 10/30/2009
Title: "COUNTRY IN TROUBLE"
Bahamians please wake up. For all those following this "MURDER". Information is that Detectives were sent to Exuma to "revisit" the whole investigation into this matter. I am amazed as to the lack of investigative skill of our so called Officers. I live in Exuma and I saw the detectives here in Exuma riding around, back at the so called accident scene and basically doing nothing to truely and honestly investigate this "MURDER". They were all about putting informatioin together to confirm a traffic accident and cover up their slackness and botched investigation. They picked up the suspects just for the record and released them within 24 hyours. key persons who I'm aware of has information which may assist the Police were not seen up to this date. A very close friend of Preston that lives in the settlement of the Forest Exuma was not seen by the "detectives". Also information is that the brother of Preston who lives in Exuma were not seen by the "Detectives". Also the nephew of Preston, who was staying with Preston for the week end has not been seen by these so called "detectives". Information is that the nephew knew Preston left Rolleville with his sweetheart, just before he was found murdered. The nephew was the one to received the news from Preston's Sweetheart and her husband. So come on "detectives" where is the investigation? THIS COUNTRY IS IN BIG, BIG TROUBLE. The murderers are in their glory. They swing the Police AGAIN.
Posted By: Michael Munroe On: 10/19/2009
Title: Mr.
It seems suspicious to me that the 'lady and her husband', reported Ferguson's death to his family. I thought reporting of fatality to a family is a police matter.
Posted By: Jessica Robertson, Online Editor On: 10/17/2009
Title: Update on Site now
The updated story is now up – http://www.tribune242.com/news/101720098_exumainvestigation_news_pg1
Posted By: Ferguson Descendant On: 10/17/2009
Title: Thank you!
Attn:Paco Nunez & Natario Mckenzie, as a relative of the late Preston Garfield Ferguson, of Exuma, I would really like to again say how appreciative my family is. Because of you and the Tribune, our plight has been brought to the fore and I do believe that as a result of its visibility, we will find that justice was delayed, but not denied. Thank you and may God bless you all.
Posted By: Paco Nunez, Tribune News Editor On: 10/16/2009
Title: Update
Tomorrow's Tribune will carry a front page story on the latest developments in the Preston Ferguson case. We are in close contact with the family and our readers can rest assured that we have no intention of letting the matter drop.
Posted By: ARMCHAIR CSI AGENT On: 10/15/2009
Title: TRIBUNE REPORTERS....
I SEE THAT THERE SEEMS TO BE SOME ACTIVITY TO RE-EXAMINE THE CASE. HAS THE TRIBUNE BOTHERED TO GET A RECAP OF WHERE THIS MATTER IS? I SAW THE FAMILY REPRESENTED AT THE OCT 12 MARCH, SO THEY ARE STILL PUSHING FOR JUSTICE. BTW, SORRY FOR THE CAPS - KEYBOARD BUSTED. HEY, THE RECESSION WILL HAVE YOU VIRTUALLY SHOUTING IN CYBERSPACE!!
Posted By: Maria On: 10/15/2009
Title: EXUMA - What is the latest?!?
Yes, there has been talk of an arrest or detention of the husband and wife for questioning in the matter AND the impounding/transfer of the "accident" vehicle to Nassau for further investigation. Exuma people in Exuma & Nassau, what is the word? There is nothing coming from out of the ranks of the Police Force. I do find it verrrry pecuilar that there only seems to be REAL policework being done after this gentleman's family went public with their refutation of the original Police report - that says alot! You have to wonder what else has or may have been mislabelled/misreported by the Police.... But I am proud of the Ferguson Family and their tenacity to not just sit back and have The Minister or The Commissioner of Police back them in to a corner staring at a blue sky with a report saying it was green! Stay in the fight until the matter is fully and finally resolved....
Posted By: Inquiring Mind On: 10/15/2009
Title: Murder of Preston Ferguson
What is happening with the investigation? The questioning/arrest of MH and his wife? Tribune, please follow up and advise the public.
Posted By: Legal Eagle On: 10/10/2009
Title: Tribune Reporters
Tribune reporters, where is the follow up story on what is already running rampant in the Exuma/Nassau grapevine? The people everyone was hinting at have been picked up for questioning after the evidence was revisited....PLEASE FOLLOW UP ON THIS INFORMATION!
Posted By: Legal Eagle On: 10/9/2009
Title: The wheels of JUSTICE are turning....
Tribune reporters....what is the word on the alleged arrests or detentions of this MH character in Exuma for the charge of causing a "traffic accident"??
Posted By: Big Ears On: 10/9/2009
Title: Exuma, Ohhhh My Exuma!!!!
Exuma!!!! Whats the word? Nassau talk is that the people suspected all along have been picked up by the team of police that left Nassau yesterday. Let us know what is going on....
Posted By: N Rodgers On: 10/8/2009
Title: Prayer Changes Things
Let justice flow like streams Of sparkling water, pure, Enabling growth, refreshing life, Abundant, cleansing sure. O God, you have bound us together in a common life. Help us, in the midst of our struggles for justice and truth, to confront one another without hatred or bitterness, and to work together with mutual forbearance and respect; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart, that barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease; that our divisions being healed, we may live in justice and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Posted By: Grace On: 10/8/2009
Title: Pray On!!
I agree with aprevious blogger; God is the ultimate judge; too many people have been praying for justice in light of this brazen act of violence; there is reason for brutality of this nature; no reason; "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Posted By: Prayerful... On: 10/8/2009
Title: God's Justice...
MH it ain’t long now; what you did under the cover of night; will be revealed for the world to see…the Lord will surely bring you and your accomplices to justice; you decide whether it is God’s justice or man’s justice; I pray you choose the latter.
Posted By: Waving for Justice On: 10/8/2009
Title: The effectual prayers of the Righteous
Exuma’s cries for justice will not go unheard; God sees and knows all things…He makes all thing perfect in His time. Watch and see the hand of the Lord as it moves swiftly to bring wrath upon the murderers here in Exuma. What an awesome God!!!
Posted By: Diane Ferguson- concerned sister of Preston Ferguson On: 10/8/2009
Title: Medical Examiner and Doctor
Could you tell me what is the reason for the Health Dept. hiring a family island doctor and a medical examiner and they only go along with what the police report says and not the real cause of death. This particular remark is to the George town clinic doctor and the Princess Margaret Hospital Pathologist, who knows for a fact that there was no damage to the truck or the pole the truck was suppose to have it, that was consistent to the wound on Preston's head. This wound was caused by a blount instrument. The entire Exuma Island knows the person(s) involved. Shame on the Dept. of Health and the Police Dept. Please get your act together or I encourage you to watch Law and Order on TV. Exuma tourism is dead because of this incident. I will continue to adopt Long Island as my home in the Bahamas and not Exuma. Everyone knows the person responsible is still walking free in the settlement of Mt. Thompson Exuma. In America things are done in a professional manner. Medical Examiners have their results and the Police Dept. have theirs.
Posted By: BahamianAmerican242 On: 10/8/2009
Title: Word on the street is....
Exuma! Whats the word? I am in the US but hearing that MH and his wife were picked up for questioning by a Nassau team of CID officers last night? Can someone confirm? Also, WHEN it is revealed as the family asserted all along, will Tommy/Reg then hold a conference to admit that they dropped the ball??? we're waiting....
Posted By: Mike On: 10/6/2009
Title: Correction To I cCan't Believe It!
I want to be fair to the other media people. I am unable to listen to all the various talk shows and to be honest don't read everything that's available, but - and I hope you will let me say this - I was just listening to Star 106.5, owned by The Guardian,and the show hosted by Juan McCartney today. His first guest was Prestons's sister who spoke movingly about her brother's death. It was a good interview and she was very honest and eloquent, going over the facts of the case. The host did say that Jeffrey Lloyd will have Tommy Turnquest as a guest on a future show and will ask relevant questions regarding the murder (accident!).
Posted By: Mike On: 10/6/2009
Title: I Can't Believe It!
I endorse the majority of the comments made by The Tribune readership, paticularly Donovan on 10/3. It is amazing to me that we hear little of this tragedy in the other media in this country. The police's "continueing investigation" still appears to be that of a traffic matter! They and Minister Turnquest just cannot ignore both the evidence and the people's reaction. There will be a huge fall-out from this case if they do not bring the suspects to trial, rather than have a decision made in the court of public opinion. Government and RBPF please react and let us know what is happening.
Posted By: Exumians 4 Life On: 10/6/2009
Title: Don't Give UP!!! Please
This country is becoming more ridiculous day by day; the murderer who killed Preston Ferguson is now making remarks and social functions regarding his freedom to do what he wants; "seeing that he has his wife all to himself, and don't have to worry about Preston" the way he is talking; he is surprised that the police have not picked him up yet; he travelled on the weekend to Nassau to see his wife who had to be hospitalized for chest pains and fainting spells since the incident. what are they waiting for; do they need to borrow some handcuffs and have someone write up the arrest warrant. joking is joking but this is becoming ludicrous... wake up and see what is staring you right in the face and what will soon bite you in the **S! Ferguson family don't stop now; the island of Exuma especially those who can't speak up for their loved ones and may not have the resources to hire independent investigators are counting on you all to speak for us. I could see Mr. J.B. at the airport now so proud of his children and Miss Mae; how she loved y'all.
Posted By: Rachel On: 10/6/2009
Title: DUMB and DUMBER!!
we heard up here that the police here in exuma are no longer dealing with preston's case and officers from traffice are now dealing with it; if this is so; they will really know now that exuma is not only known for producing onions; we will bring this island to a stand still because we all know that this was no traffic accident; what in the hell is taking them so long to arrest this murderer who will probably kill again because his wife is still being the W***e that she is used to being; we knew preston was trying to leave that ole'rat and get on with his life; now the new man is her life better watch out before he is found in a "traffic accident" DUMB A****
Posted By: Concerned citizen On: 10/6/2009
Title: Uncomfortable in Exuma
Not sure if anyone else smells the aroma in the air; but to me it smells like like a "LAW SUIT"...I think the young man who was obviously murdered is survived by a young child; and by extension the police department/national security need to be held accountable for the way in which the whole incident was handled and the deligence or incompetence of the people who are supposed to speak/act on behalf of victims and their families. Officials it is not too late to get it right...investigate and put the minds of Exumians at ease and arrest the "masterminds" behind this blatant act of murder...it is uncomfortable to be walking the same streets and patronizing the same grocery stores and restaurants with such an animal. If the police can't get it right; for sure we serve and AWESOME God who makes all thing well in His time.
Posted By: The Sleeper On: 10/6/2009
Title: Asleep at the Wheel Little Tommy Tucker
Could someone please wake those two bungling billies up; because obviously they are asleep at the wheel and if they are not careful they may have a "traffic accident" Exuma traffic accident my left nut!!!
Posted By: MPS On: 10/5/2009
Title: Murder of Preston Ferguson
Today's Tribune reports that a senior police official commented that this case has now been turned over to the Police Road Traffic Division...Wow! I can't believe that the Police still believe that this was a traffic accident! For this case to have been turned over to the Police Road Traffic Division tells me that they do! They, along with the Minister of National Security, are the only ones who still believe that foolishness! Come on now, any thinking person who saw the pictures that were posted on this site and in the newspaper would come to the obvious conclusion that this was no accident! Wake up Mr. Commissioner of Police and Mr. Minister of National Security! It appears that you are sleeping on the job!
Posted By: Ears and Eyes242 On: 10/5/2009
Title: Ohhhhh, I heard something....
I hate gossip, but is it "gossip" if the information is TRUE?!? I heard that certain people reside in a certain minister's constituency when in Nassau, and that is why nothing has been done to even question these people about the incident!! If THAT is the reason why the investigation is being stalled (obviously with the intention of having it swept under Exuma's murderous rug), I cry SHAME on this minister and all parties concerned with concealing true crime in this country! I hope that the Tribune reporters are brave enough to scratch the surface of this potentially explosive scenario!! People are talking...and where there is smoke, you know the rest....
Posted By: Mark. F. On: 10/5/2009
Title: What now Tommy and Reg?
The Minister and the Police DON'T CARE - plain and simple - because it would mean that they have to ADMIT that they were either: 1. Lazy/Sloppy in how they treated the scene of the crime/"accident", 2. They wouild have to apologize for this MAJOR oversight/dereliction of duty, 3. They would have to REOPEN the investigation (for REAL this time - none of that flim flam stuff for the media, Tommy Tucker!), and 4. Would open themselves up to immense public scrutiny and possibly face many families who buried their loved ones with doubts about how they died....SAD, BUT TRUE! But with the Minister on the proverbial "hot seat," I doubt he will be MAN enough to say he erred and insist that his subordinates in Nassau and Exuma actually DO their jobs!!! And that, my friends, is my five cents....
Posted By: maretta On: 10/4/2009
Title: dear friend
ive know preston from i was a lil girl visiting exuma. wat needs to be done for bahamians to get justice in this bahamas?. since the police are not willing to arrest anyone for this murder maybe they should be charged for doing so poorly a job .if they public could see this was murder they can see ,they are now embrassed!!!from i first heard or prestons death i was told he was murded so why haven t the right people been arrested . and we are a christian nation it seems we care about power and money more than we care about human lives , where is the god in that?
Posted By: A Concern Exumian On: 10/4/2009
Title: Tommy Tucker must be fired
If we want to save our country, Let's be serious and do our best to move for the resignation of "Tommy Tucker" he is defending the Police and dont even have the facts about this matter. Therefore I support an urgent Public Enquiry and at the end of the day, it will be proven that "Tommy Tucker" was a part of a conspiracy or just plane lost in his job. Let's do it Bahamas.
Posted By: Exuma Watch Tower On: 10/4/2009
Title: A Country In Trouble
I found it very astonishing, All of the comments, news stories mostly haedline and not a press statement from the Police or any kind of clarfication as to what happen from day ONE of Preston's death up to this date. If or what actions are being taken to bring closure. Was anyone ever arrested, Questioned, Charged or may be just questioned and released. The silence from the Police in this matter leaves a sour taste in us the piblic's mouth. I see why the family is pressing on. Something is not right, An enquirey needs to be held in this matter immediately. Family members you have to move and move quickly, this one is deep. Sad to know that have murderers roaming freely in our society. The Police seems not to be up to the task.
Posted By: Donovan On: 10/3/2009
Title: Preston Ferguson
We all know that our appointment with death is inevitable. As a christian people our hope is that we live again with our creator! How, and when we die is usually a mystery to us. As a family who has lost a loved one prematurely, the hurt is indescribable! I can only dream the nightmare of a loss of this kind! Where have our hearts withered to? To wilfully take a life is a despicable, inhumane, and very sick act!......to have the authority to bring or assist in bringing justice to this kind of evil, and fail to do so, or to rest knowing that ABSOLUTELY ALL measures were NOT taken in resolving a murder (particularly when there's very reasonable cause for concern), is as great or GREATER than the act of murder itself!......in my opinion.
Posted By: Tynes On: 10/2/2009
Title: Shame on Tommy Tucker
...And that is what his name will be to me (from this day fwd) because he is like a spoiled child!! Is no one supposed to question the speed, attention to detail, and effectiveness of our Police Force or his performance as Minister??? When since?!?! The PEOPLE put you in that seat and you will do well to remember that you are first and foremost a PUBLIC SERVANT! CATCH YOURSELF! Stop telling people about coroner's court (when they cant even get someone to commit to a DATE for the actual inquest) or saying matters are under investigation (when NO ONE has been sent to Exuma to conduct a REAL investigation)!! The half truths/truth cousins/LIES have got to stop! Stop acting like a schoolgirl and get on your job! Make the POLICE do their work!! REVISIT THE EXUMA MATTER....and any other matter the RBPF has screwed up and misled the public about!
Posted By: Proud Exuma Descendant Living In Nassau On: 10/2/2009
Title: Anyone from Exuma???
Anyone know what is going on in Exuma since the Sh*t hit the fan in Nassau? There are talks of the Police sending another squad of detectives down there to make proper enquiries. There is talk that the people of interest are acting erratic. The female is supposedly in Nassau seeking medical attention after getting frantic at work as a result of the Tribune article. The male cant seem to get his life back on track. Smacks of a guilty conscience! But the Police would do well to keep an eye on the female suspect because you never know when they may be on the next Air Jamaica flight and skip town. EXUMA, EXUMA, EXUMA - let us in Nassau know what is going on!!!
Posted By: Exuma Watch Tower On: 10/1/2009
Title: "POLICE SLOPPY WORK IN EXUMA"
Ferguson family keep up the fight. Dont give up. The whole Exuma and I even say the Bahamas and the entire world are behind you. I thing you have the Police on this one. Take note. The family have to get an experience lawyer, You must move speedily to have Preston's body exhumed. Get a detail autopsy. You may have to hire an independant one. Forget trying to talk to "OLD Reggie" who needs to go home and take care his grand and back yard garden. And oh yea forget "TOMMY TUCKER" who is cluless as to running his Ministry. Sorry for the FNM but its people like TOMMY who will cause the FNM to lose the next election. As much as I know I think the Ferguson family are hard core FNMs. I hope you all do the right thing next time. PAY THEM BACK BIG TIME. So sad to see that you have to be going through this. If only those Police had done what was required of them in the first place there will be no need for this matter to be where it is today. We are with you, press on. We need "REAL POLICE" in Exuma. Only a bunch a jokers up here, from top to bottom.
Posted By: Patricia On: 10/1/2009
Title: Police inexperience as usual
I can see if they said that the death was "suspicious", but murder come on. The police in Nassau bitches up their investigations so I know those one on the island "clusless".
Posted By: Unsolved On: 9/30/2009
Title: Another Unsolved Murder
Look at Kevin Milford, who drowned during the hurricane. You think that was just a drowning. I say NO. That young man was an excellent swimmer and could have gotten out of that pond of water he drowned in. Need to look into this one also.
Posted By: Sonia S, Orlando On: 9/30/2009
Title: Such Injustice
First I would like to extend my condolscences to the entire Ferguson Family, It is hard enough to deal with the lost of a love one, but to also continue to suffer by the injustice iof your leading officals is heart-breaking. No one is asking for favours here, the family is only asking for JUSTICE and For the appropraite people to do their jobs. As a follow Bahamaian I am ashamed. There is APPARENTLY NO SYSTEMS IN PLACE TO DEAL WITH MURDERS IN THE BAHAMAS. Crime scences are contaminated, eyewitness testimonies don't count for anything and the last people to see the victim alive - well who cares. The Ferguson's Care and some has to be accountable! Have the people in charge earn their pay, they owe it to the Bahmaian people TO DO THERE JOBS! Today is the Ferguson's tomorow......maybe you! They need PROPER PROTOCOLS!!!!!!
Posted By: James On: 9/30/2009
Title: Do something Commissioner
Mr. Ferguson, get off your behind and mobilize a proper investigation of the circumstances surrounding the death of Preston Ferguson forthwith. If you can't see that something is wrong, you should be able to smell it. Mr. Turnquest, once again the people are saying, "We have had enough." Mr. Ingraham, in this new Bahamas, no seat is safe!
Posted By: Mrs. Mckenzie On: 9/29/2009
Title: Politics and Money ran our Bahamas
I am an Exumian, lived here most of my life, there has been numerous of murders, no proper investigation, no care at all. The law enforcement officers need to wonder what if it is their brother, sister, uncle, mother or father. The police force is a slack job, the higher heads donot put out serious commands, In other countries if you check the media, it doesn't matter who you are or how much money you have, you do the crime, they will not stop until they get you to do the time. We need officers from other neighboring islands, we are to much of a family. everyone knows someone, using their position to deal under hand. The police force needs a wake up call or the citizens will start to take the law into their own hands, no one will be safe then. Preston murder is unsolve, Ray from Rolle Town murder is unsolved, Elvis Mckenzie murder from Stuart Manor is insolved and the young guy they found in a trailer is unsolved, nothing came out of those cases. Exumians came up with their own suspects, but the police degrade you if you are not living above certain standards, they feel the families will get over it. Like they say what goes around comes back to bite you. The government needs to employ men and women who are willing to make a difference for their country, who are also honest in their daily dealings. Get rid of some of these officers who only wait to collect paychecks, drink, party, chase after young girls or put out road block, that's what they are good for here. Follow the Obama slogan, "Change we need" for a better Bahamas and unity between the law and citizens. Let's clean up Exuma, please.
Posted By: Merissa On: 9/29/2009
Title: We need action against Crime.
It's one thing to chat online and on the radio but I think its time for Bahamians to go to Rawson Square and demand action from those who were elected to produce results. Currently, we are not getting good results. What will it take for change to occur. Who is listening.
Posted By: Charles. On: 9/29/2009
Title: These are new times
Any public official would be wise to acknowledge that these are different times. Communication in this technological age has made secrets and cover-ups a thing of the past. The people are speaking, strongly, and those who dare to ignore it do so at their peril. Certain officials should be springing into action to redeem this situation. My sympathy to the Ferguson family.
Posted By: Ferguson Family On: 9/29/2009
Title: Wednesday - Sept 30, 2009
The Ferguson Family in our pursuit for justice;will be demonstrating in Parliament Square on Wednestay, September 30th 2009, 9am-3:30pm, along with the family of the late Brenton Smith and perhaps countless others. As we protest the mishandling of the murder investigation of Mr. Preston Garfield Ferguson Sr. (The Forest Exuma) - Father, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, Nephew, Friend. It is our aim to bring attention to this injustice and to bring accountability to the feet of the relevant officials.
Posted By: Voice of a Grieving Bahamas On: 9/29/2009
Title: Demonstration for Corrective Action - Sept30, 2009
Peaceful Demonstration to DEMAND more accoutability and transparency surrounding investigations of suspicious deaths - Wednesday - Sept 30 in Rawson Square. All right thinking and otherwise decent Bahamians who are sick and tired of the Minister of National Security playing politics and the RBPF bad apples playing politics OR treating Bahamian people like sheep - born to be slaughtered - need to make their presence felt and voices heard when the next session of the House of Assembly is convened. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! MAKE THESE ELECTED OFFICIALS KNOW THAT THEIR BOSSES ARE FED UP WITH THEIR ON-THE-JOB PERFORMANCE! ELECTIONS ARE RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER....WHO WILL BE SERVED TERMINATION LETTERS? WHO CAN LOOK FORWARD TO CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT?
Posted By: Diana Ferguson, Miami Florida On: 9/28/2009
Title: Preston Ferguson
Dear Mr. McKenzie, Responding to your article dated September 22nd. 2009, regarding Mr. Ferguson's death Sir, even a blind person would have been able to see that Mr. Ferguson's death was not an accident. It was definitely a murder. The police officers in Exuma should be ashamed of themselves. Exuma is known for having murders that were never solved. I would never recommend a stranger to visit that island, especially a tourist. I was born in Exuma, myself, and I am very embarrased to let people know because of the corruption that is so evident in the Police Department on that island. Why is it that all murders on Exuma are ruled as "accidents?" Preston's death isn't the first one but I truly hope that things will change and there will be no more murders swept under the rug and labelled as "accidents." What police academy did the officers attend the reason they don't know how to investigate a suspicious death? Maybe they should all watch CSI on television to learn how to let the evidence do the talking. If that doesn't work, all the officers should take a real police course at one of the academies in the United States or England. Thanks!
Posted By: Serious about fighting crime On: 9/28/2009
Title: The Tribune is #1 right now!
The INSIGHT article (or should I say supplement - because of the volume of information provided) was very much on point. The Tribune continues to show their excellence in the media world. Any sane person could have written a proper report and jumpstarted an investigation just on that information alone. The police and the Minister need to get it together! This situation has touched a nerve nationwide...heck, even tourists and non residents are responding.
Posted By: The Watcher On: 9/27/2009
Title: A strange thing happened....
Since the powers-that-be may have been asleep in the past week....I took it upon myself to send The Tribune articles to BOTH parties official websites (given that they BOTH have forums for the Bahamian people to voice their concerns on various issues). Ironically, the PLP website was the only one to post it. Why is that?? Is the FNM intentionally trying to suppress the voice of the people? Had the Tribune NOT run this report, would the Bahamian people simply have been lulled in to a false sense of secuirty while the powers that be play politics??? I cry FOUL!!!
Posted By: NATASHA On: 9/27/2009
Title: VERY UNFORTUNATE...UNBELIEVABLE!
My sincerest sympathies to the Ferguson Family in the Bahamas and Exuma Islands. Saw the pics in the paper and yes, a blind bat could see that that little mash on the side of the car could not have resulted from any vehicle upon impact! The Police is just lousy...there is widespread mistrust of any police officer by the Bahamian Public...as a female I am afraid of any police officer male or female because the force is seen to have the appearance of mishandling and corruption and a blatant disregard for human life (Brenton Smith prime example)! I am ashamed to be a Bahamian and to see the degradation of our society as a whole. The weeding out must begin from the top down....we need a new Bahamian Party...a new breed of Bahamians to bring social order and decency to our land once again.....WE ARE ALL TIRED OF THIS..........CLEARLY....THE PAST THE PRESENT LEADERSHIP ARE ILL-EQUIPT........BAHAMAS WAKE UP.....WE NEED A YOUNGER VIBRANT GOD FEARING LEADER AND REPRESENTATIVES !!
Posted By: Disgruntled Bahamian On: 9/26/2009
Title: We Are Our Brother's Keeper
I say this: The same way, when there was a fire at the PLP Headquarters a few years back and members of the Opposition Party had all of those foreign experts come in from abroad to do forensic work (that shouldve been done by our OWN forensics unit in the Bahamas), is the same way that this case should be handled. Enough is enough. It's no secret that people are getting away with murder because of their political affiliation or relation to some high-ranking police officer or politician. But as the saying goes, "TODAY FOR YOU, TOMORROW FOR ME." Every dog will have his day!
Posted By: Geoffrey L. Ferguson On: 9/26/2009
Title: "Brother of Preston"
I am one of the brothers of Preston Ferguson but presently lives in N.P. I visited Exuma on the same day of his untimely death. I stayed in Exuma for a few days after his body was taken to N.P. for an autopsy. I was amazed as to the level of interest and concern, shown by the People of Exuma, especially as it relates to circumstances surrounding Preston’s death. It’s sad to see the way he died with so many unanswered questions. Preston and I were very close and I’m aware of a few things happening in his life prior to his death which calls for urgent attention from investigators. Whatever information, which I thought could assist the Police in their investigation, was supplied to the Police upon my arrival in Exuma. On my return to N.P, same info. supplied to officers in Exuma and more, were supplied to CDU. It is my hope that information supplied will be able to yield some positive result in order to bring closure to this family who is of course hurting. To this date, from my experience, common sense and physical evidence of the scene raises my suspicion and I say “I SMELL A RAT”. (As many others do). Thanks for the support from the Exuma community and the Public at large. I would also like to appeal to all of you who may have information which may shed more light on my brother’s death to please come forward and assist us. Today is our day, nobody knows who is next. Feel free to contact me 242-554-2188. Or any other family member.
Posted By: Anishka L. On: 9/26/2009
Title: Outrage!
You have to wonder if the politicians and police take the time to read what is here! People are hurting, outraged and unwilling to fall for a smoke screened and canned response to crime in this country. Stop playing games with the Bahamian people and fight crime - high and low! My God, what will it take?!?! Whats nest?!?! People being lined up and cut down in Rawson Square????
Posted By: Mike On: 9/26/2009
Title: KUDOS
I have commented previously on two ocassions, but omitted to give credit for the fine story written by NATARIO McKENZIE which really opened our eyes. Once again, thank you, Tribune. The response to this tragedy has been huge and it is great to see our people holding those in so-called authority to account for their actions and do the right thing. Tommy for once do something instead of rambling on about meaningless statistics. The public know how many people have been murdered and we all feel the pain. The support of your readership has been fantastic. To Preston's family, you are so brave, keep the faith-you are making history.
Posted By: Ms. Proper, Key Biscayne, Florida On: 9/26/2009
Title: Preston Ferguson
It's obvious the police didn't do their job. The police camera was left in the truck that the deceased (Preston Ferguson) was in. The family, being as honest and law abiding, returned the camera to the police department which they should not have. However, the Bahamas need to go back to the british day when they only hired British and West Indies police officiers. Exuma is known for having unsolved murders and Preston's case is definitely one. I am very disappointed in the police department in the Bahamas especially in Exuma and being an American who is originally from the Bahamas will never recommend any visitor to Exuma. Safety is a problem.
Posted By: Come better Tommy/Reginald On: 9/26/2009
Title: Did you notice?!?!?!
Why is it that, in reference to such a hot topic issue, the left hand (Tommy T.) and the right hand (Reginald F.) dont even seem to belong to the same body?!?!?! And I quote, "The Tribune asked the Police Commissioner and Minister Turnquest about the re-enactment of the accident. They gave conflicting information on the re-enactment..." Bahamian people, we are being hoodwinked>bamboozled>run amuck...those two wouldnt know what to do in this OR any other criminal matter if they were in possession of photographic, video, affidavit and physical evidence with the culprits name, address, phone numbers, known associates and current whereabouts tucked in their back pockets with their signed and videotaped confession!!!!!! It is clear they dropped the ball and are trying to make the Bahamian people believe they are doing SOMETHING that they are NOT....SHAME SHAME SHAME!!
Posted By: ProudBahamaSon On: 9/26/2009
Title: GOOD JOB!
TRIBUNE REPORTERS - KEEP THE PRESSURE ON THESE "OFFICIALS"!!!! FOR TOO LONG THEY HAVE BEEN ALLOWED TO RIDE AROUND BLOWING A/C WHILE THE COUNTRY GOES TO HELL! GREAT JOB!
Posted By: CONCERN On: 9/26/2009
Title: OH EXUM
PEOPLE OF EXUMA It's time to open your eyes to whats happening around you, this murder has certinly put you on the map i thought a FOUR SEASONS was the key to placing you in the world's eye. I guess not. Once again there is an unsoleved murder on your island, go back through the books and see how many unsolved murders you have for one island, the time you take to look at another brother or sister's material gain is the time you should take to look into who's distroying your island and young people. and SPEAK UP, FOR THOSE WHO KNOW THE STORY TELL IT. PLEASE PLEASE IF IT WERE YOU ! YOU WOULD WANT SOMEONE TO HELP YOU. THIS IS SOMEONE'S CHILD, BROTHER, FRIEND. BE BLESSED
Posted By: COB's Finest On: 9/26/2009
Title: Impressed (and that is no small feat)
I have never seen so many people (unrelated) take to a cause like this in recent times!! I must say that for the first time, in a long time, I am proud to be a Bahamian - in that people are standing up to say, "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!! LOCK UP THE CRIMINALS AND POLICE/POLITICIANS - GET ON YOUR JOBS!!" Maybe there is hope for the future of the Bahamas after all....
Posted By: kittyton242 On: 9/26/2009
Title: Cold-Blooded Murder
Stevie Wonder can see this is not a accident this is a MURDER ! So justice need to be serve and served quick .It is sad to see that they would say that this is an accident when all the evidence post shows cold- blooded murder come on now people of the 242 we need to take our country back from these people who feel it is ok to take innocent peoples life and get a way with .Police Officers ,CDU go back investigate it and do it again and do it RIGHT ! Ty!
Posted By: Keen Observer On: 9/26/2009
Title:
Jessica Robertson has a point. Even if some have firsthand knowledge of the matter - report that to someone in authority who can get the ball rolling (seems odd saying report it to the Police, in light of this matter). This needs to be handled properly to ensure that if there are culprits involved, they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law withe evidence that sticks. I am sure the family and every right thinking person appreciates the passion and support of everyone, but do not allow this opportunity for justice to slip away on a technicality. Fight the Good Fight!
Posted By: All praises due.... On: 9/26/2009
Title:
Kudos to The Tribune for sticking with this story....if every family stuck by their lost loved ones this way, crime and criminals would NEVER have a chance to breathe the air of FREEDOM in this Bahamaland. I have goosebumps just thinking about this turning of the tide in the Bahamas....fight on Ferguson Family and any other family who have been wronged by botched police reporting!! EVIL CANNOT PROSPER FOREVER!
Posted By: EXUMA 4 LIFE!! On: 9/26/2009
Title:
EXUMA PEOPLE!!!! PLEASE TELL US IN NASSAU WHAT IS GOING ON OVER THERE TODAY NOW THAT THERE HAS BEEN A FOLLOW UP STORY CARRIED IN THE TRIBUNE TODAY. WE GET BITS AND PIECES FROM THIS WEBSITE, BUT WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING ABOUT ALL OF THIS MESS?!?!?? DO TELL....
Posted By: Willard On: 9/26/2009
Title: Crime
Minister Turnquest; you appeared in a Tribune article on Saturday Sept 19, 2009 ironically enough the tribune exclusive headline read "family attack "murder" probe - Ref Mr. Preston Ferguson; your comments in the article appeared uder the heading Crime: (rotary club presentation)....drum role please...the minister was quoted as saying "We must not turn a blind eye to crime" well if that don't beat them all; mr. minister; please pull that document from your briefcase and read it again, but listen to what "you" are saying...It is good to know that "27 murders were committed between midnight and 8 am" for God sake, now consider the family of one of those statistics ... do the right thing or cause the right thing to be done in this case. Be a man of your word and do not continue to turn a blind eye...
Posted By: Tony On: 9/26/2009
Title:
The campaign slogan say it aint long now and no turning back; lordy Exuma turn upside down this morning. Run com see a man
Posted By: Patrick J On: 9/26/2009
Title:
could someone please find out if tommy t and Reginald f have a pulse this morning; just saw the papers and the family is pressing on; someone please get a copy of the paper for the police chief so that he and tommy can get a CLUE!!
Posted By: Q. DAVIS On: 9/26/2009
Title: SLACK HEAD.....LOUSY BODY
When it come to slack the Exuma Police Dept. has taken it by storm!!!!!! a blind man could see from the evidence that Preston was mudered. Exuma has a CDU office therefore officers who are trained in Scenes of Crime should be posted on the island any able to fully process these scenes when some unfortunate incident like this occur but when the head (O.A. Tommy Turnquest) is SLACK what could we expect from the body??? As a servant of the police force it is a SLAP IN THE FACE TO US AS FAMILY OF PRESTON for this crime to be covered up. Are the suspects related to a high official?? I am convinced as a native from Exuma now residing In the Mt. Moriah constituancy that O.A.Tommy Turnquest will not be running in the 2012 elections or better I will ADVISE him not to even ATTEMPT as HAS not done anything in this area or the people who elected him. BUT UNTIL IT HOME TO THESE LOUSY OFFICIALS THEY WILL CONTINUE TO TURN A BLIND EYE TO CRIME.
Posted By: Cynthia Kelly On: 9/26/2009
Title: MURDER IN EXUMA?????????
Authorities, please let's clean up this mess. My Bahamaland once use to be a beautiful tourist resort. What has happened??? It is being rumored that if you want to kill someone, take them to Exuma because nothing will come out of it. What the hell?????? We have to fix this. Whle it is good to see Reginald and Tommy receiving gifts and talking about the new fire engine gotten on the island the other day, we need to get down to some real business. See....the Bahamian who is locked up in Florida for shooting or something of the sort??? America does not take foolishness, and our lousy Bahamians want to go to the US and do the same bull they do in the Bahamas when they travel. Please, let's get busy...get rid of all haitians and jamaicans, clean up our country and make it what it use dto be. Where is Mr. Loftus Roker?????? Decent men like him did there jobs when they were in politics. What has happend to these "Modern Ploiticians"????? They are too soft and too busy fluffin and trying to do the things their wives shuld be doing. Get with it folks.
Posted By: Davis On: 9/26/2009
Title: What is the word?
Can anyone confirm what is being spread in exuma, please share maybe they will get this investigation right...fingers crossed.
Posted By: Patsy On: 9/26/2009
Title: I hope it is true!!!
We were at a after work party in Moss town tonight and heard that the police in nassau are coming back to exuma to do another investigation. please say that this is true... we pray it is; so that justice will be done soon!
Posted By: Olga E. Ferguson-Forbes On: 9/25/2009
Title: Rest In Peace Baby Brother!!!!!!
I am amazed at the amount of comments and attention that my brother's death has gotten. When another murder hits the news, it is always, "Wow, someone else has lost a loved one". When it hits home, it really hurts and that is our situation at this time. Nobody knows how they will die, but I never thought that one of my siblings would die because of murder and so brutally, however, God knows all things. I truly thank God for prayers as I feel as though that is what has been keeping us. I also thank God that we are a closely knit family and Preston's death has brought us even closer. We will press on, we are willing to go to any extent to fight for justice, and we are asking that our supporters and readers keep us in your prayers as we go through these trying times. We are encouraged that God has the final say and we all must account to Him for what we would have done on earth.
Posted By: Rhavae Allison Forbes On: 9/25/2009
Title: Uncle Preston
I am horrified at what has happened to my uncle and to know that my cousin Preston II has to grow up without his Dad. What really frightens me is the fact that I am 11 years old and in the next 11 years when I am 22 years old, we probably will not be able to walk on the streets if crime of this type continues to go unnoticed. People in charge, please do something to protect this country for the future generation. I am most disgusted by the way this murder hes been handled as my family is hurting. I really miss my uncle and now that he is deceased, I will no longer see him again.
Posted By: Mike On: 9/25/2009
Title: DO THE RIGHT THING, PLEASE, AGAIN
I hope that Tommy Turnquest has taken time out from his (busy?) day to check all the emails concerning Preston Ferguson's tragic death and the amazing response from all of your readers who are spot on with their observations. I really respect this family in their time of grief, but they appear to be very strong. This personal matter has become a huge national issue and Mr. Turnquest's political future should be very much on the line. I trust the PM is listening.
Posted By: D. JONES On: 9/25/2009
Title: SPREAD THE WORD!
FLOOD YOUR EMAIL CONTACTS TO GET THE PROPER ATTN TO THIS AND ANY OTHER MATTERS WHERE CRIMINAL ACTS ARE SEEMINGLY GOING UNPUNISHED. THIS IS RIDICULOUS! I AM A COLLEGE STUDENT IN RALEIGH, NC AND WILL SURELY BE SENDING THIS LINK TO EVERYONE I KNOW....BAHAMIAN AND AMERICAN! GOOD LUCK FERGUSON FAMILY IN YOUR FIGHT FOR JUSTICE! DO NOT LET THIS GO JUST LIKE THAT!
Posted By: D. Roberts On: 9/25/2009
Title: THE FIRE HAS BEEN LIT!
A fire has been lit in this here Bahamas today and it is unfortunate that it took the loss of life and subsequent mishandling of a case to bring it all to the forefront. Bahamians, by and large, are fed up with crime and lawlessness....even more so, we are fed up with the lackluster performance of the RBPF and the Minister of National Security. It is true that you cant please all of the people ALL of the time - but how can this many Bahamians be sick and tired of burying loved ones prematurely at the hands of murderers while they strut around like they are invincible?!?!?! Everyone in this praying nation needs to let the Govt know that we are sick and tired of this mess. They may choose to ignore our cries now, but come next election, let your voices be heard loud and clear when they come around pandering for votes! Wear every memorial t-shirt, display every obituary, shed every tear for those you lost and speak with ONE VOICE! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!!
Posted By: Bill - Rhode Island, NY On: 9/25/2009
Title: Exuma - Unsolved Murder Capital?
We have cruised the Bahamas (including The Exumas) many times over the years and have always had a great time there - the weather, the food, and the people. However, we are now hesistant to make another trip if crimes like these are allowed to go unchecked and unpunished. In the US, rookie officers see promotions for cracking clear cut cases like this. From all accounts in the article and from what people close to the island are saying, this was NO traffic accident. To say that is an insult to the family and officials should be embarassed to cosign such foolishness. I will be forwarding this article to as many of my yachting buddies and fellow travellers to make them aware of how crimes are "handled" in that community and to give them an overall heads up. The Bahamas has always been good to us, but I dont want to wind up the victim of murder and have my family told that I fell overboard (bound and gagged) in an "accident" or some other crap. Get it together officlals!
Posted By: Doll On: 9/25/2009
Title: Preston Ferguson
I have just finished reading the article concerning Preston Ferguson’s death. It appears from his family’s evidence and from the articles submitted from the readers that this was not an accident!!! I live in Baltimore, Maryland and I have been visiting the Bahamas for the past 25 yrs. I have had the pleasure of meeting a few of Preston’s family members. This is a sad situation. When I come to the Bahamas I would want to feel safe; how can I feel safe knowing that the Bahamas Police force did not do the right thing by their own?? Preston didn’t deserve to die this way. The lady that he was seeing should have been the first person to be questioned along with her husband. If someone gave our police officers some information about a murder here in Baltimore, Maryland, you bet someone would have been arrested by now!!! Our police department asks daily for information to be given to them and a person can give that information anonymously. They don’t always have to give their names!!! Sloppy, Sloppy work on behalf of the Police force. Step up and do your job. I admire the Ferguson Family for not giving up the fight to prove that this was no accident. The persons responsible should be brought to justice and held accountable for Preston’s murder. Thank you for letting me voice my opinion about this unfortunate incident.
Posted By: Antoinette On: 9/25/2009
Title: Follow UP Needed!!!
I trust that the reporters at the Tribune (and surely the reporter responsible for this story) will be reviewing the comments here to shed further light on what appears to be a clear case of mishandling and mislabelling an actual CRIME. When you guys meet with Reginald Ferguson for the follow up, ask him if he is aware (as many Exumians already seem to be) that certain key people seemed to have more than a casual involvement in the overall matter. When will those people be picked up? Why havent they even been questioned? I am new to Tribune242 but was drawn to this story and the comments posted from near and far....Too much is going on in this country behind the scenes and under the cover of darkness! How many more must die before the powers that be take a serious approach to crime?!?!?
Posted By: Anne Williams On: 9/25/2009
Title: murder or accident??? Preston Ferguson
I have read the story and all of the comments surrounding Preston Ferguson's death. I live in Baltimore, Maryland and even though I had never met Preston, I knew one of his sisters-Diane Ferguson and two of his brothers-Lynn (Maxwell) Ferguson and Freddie Ferguson. As all of the comments from the readers have indicated, no one deserves to die like this young man or anyone for that matter. It appears as though the police department have not done a good job of gathering all of the facts surrounding this case. My first question was?? how was it that the female friend (who was allegedly was the last one to see him alive) and her husband showed up at the family residence to deliver some bad news??? Here in the states, if someone have some information surrounding a death which appears suspicious, those individuals would have been picked up for questioning. By now, someone would have been charged with this Murder!!! and yes I said Murder!!! This was no accident!!! Hopefully this comment and all of the comments written so far will be enough to bring these individuals to justice. Thank you for letting me voice my opinion.
Posted By: Mike On: 9/25/2009
Title: DO THE RIGHT THING, PLEASE
Thank you Mr. Nunez and The Tribune. I've read all the posts and it is most gratifying to see the response to the family's concerns. Captain Bahamas said it all on 9/23 and I don't have to re-iterate all the outraged comments except to say it is unbelievable how the police rushed to judgement(?). By now I would think that Mr Ferguson would have despatched a senior competent team to interview the husband and wife. What a scandal. My prayers are with this very brave family.
Posted By: Troi A. Ferguson On: 9/25/2009
Title: Murder Victim or Traffic Fatality
When I spent Summers growing up in Mount Thompson during the 1970s there were several heinous crimes that when unsolved. You would think that after 35 years of 'Independence' our 'Royal' Bahamas Police Force leaders would get their act(s) together. I find it interesting that a Ferguson from Acklins is treating a Ferguson from Great Exuma and Cays like second class citizen. I want the Commissioner to get off his rump and solve this matter or all Fergusons of goodwill will petition for his immediate sacking. Perhaps this is what you get when relatives of politicians are given responsibility for critical areas such as policing, detection and apprehension. The Prime Minister had better get his head out of the 'bottle' (sand) and deal with this matter, forthwith.
Posted By: D. KNOWLES On: 9/25/2009
Title: SEND THE TRIBUNE LINK TO ALL IN YOUR EMAIL LIST
I RECEIVED THIS LINK FROM A FRIEND AT WORK AND THE OFFICE WAS BUZZING ABOUT HOW THIS IS CLEARLY A MURDER THAT WAS EITHER COVERED UP (OR IMPROPERLY HANDLED) TO LOOK LIKE AN ACCIDENT. THE INVESTIGATING OFFICERS NEED TO BE RETRAINED OR REMOVED FROM THEIR POSTS AND REPLACED WITH COMPETENT OFFICERS. PLEASE FORWARD THIS NEWS LINK TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW LOCAL AND FOREIGN. MAKE THEM SHAME AND CALL THEIR NAMES! EVERYONE NEEDS TO BE ACCOUNTABLE IN THIS AND EVERY OTHER UNSOLVED OR QUESTIONABLE CRIMINAL MATTER. THERE IS NO WONDER THE MURDER/CRIME RATE IS WHERE IT IS....THE POWERS-THAT-BE ARE BS'ING WITH THE LIVES OF THE BAHAMIAN PEOPLE!
Posted By: A. Moss On: 9/25/2009
Title: Why the Delay?!?!?
When will the prime suspects be detained for interrogation?!?? Seems pretty open and shut to me....and apparently ANYONE who either lives in Exuma or is close to the case - except the backwards Police!
Posted By: Mary Higgins On: 9/25/2009
Title: SAD....
Anyone who has ever lost a loved one and had the police drag their feet OR issue some lame excuse of a police report needs to unite and call for more accountability! From the Minister to the Commissioner to the rank and file officers...they are all PUBLIC servants!! I think they forget this...and as you are appointed, you can also be REMOVED from office. SHAME, SHAME, SHAME IN BAHAMALAND!
Posted By: Rchel On: 9/25/2009
Title: The Fergusons in forest
I don't know preston parents or older siblings but preston and i went to school together; he could not have done something to be killed; he always had a smile and willing to give you his last; we know who kill preston and knowing his family and how good they are to people; my grandmother says that Lord will repay them 100 fold. please lock up those people who kill him
Posted By: Lucia E. Broughton On: 9/24/2009
Title:
Mishandled or covered up? It happens often enough here. With crime in this country if not mishandled or (more correctly) covered up the police will adopt either a dopey of severe look then give the lame assurance that they'll get the guy that did it...and they NEVER do. Tommy Turnquest is useless in his post and the great deal of regard I had for Commissioner Ferguson is steadily sliding. I no longer trust the police to do their jobs and look forward to the day when that trust can be restored.
Posted By: Pamela On: 9/24/2009
Title:
People in Exuma are not gong to rest until these murderers are brought to justice; this was a decent young man from a decent family here in Exuma; and i know that his family will not stop until; justice is served; we are praying for you all; especially his sisters I went to school with.
Posted By: FIFI On: 9/24/2009
Title: THIS IS RIDICULOUS!!!!!!!!!!
I think this is very ridiculous. Im really dissappointed in these police officers, they are very immature. I really and truly believe what this mans family said more than what the officers said. And the most stupiddess thing of all i dont think this man had any disorder of any kind that he looked out the window before checkin to see if he was still ont he road, because only a special ed. person would do such thing. Come on policemen!! Come betta than that man!!!!1 As i said already I am going to say it again THIS IS RIDICULOUS!!!!!!!!!!!! U GO Mr.Ferguson Family u fight for what you think is right! And by God's grace I hope them policemen were wrong! Hmmmmm!!!!!!!!!!
Posted By: Tamara On: 9/24/2009
Title: TB
This needs otobe inbestigated. Presont's only crime was being a lover boy.
Posted By: Peaches On: 9/24/2009
Title:
The police need to do something. WHy has this female friend or her husband not been questioned as yet? TOmmy Turnquest needs to get the ball rolling.
Posted By: Janice M. L. On: 9/24/2009
Title:
Oh Lord; I was told about this website today; but my company does not allow us to access the internet; could not wait to get home to post a note; I read the article on tuesday and a girlfriend and i talked about it for more than 1 hour that evening; i recognize one of the sisters on the front page; this is a decent family from exuma; oh lord someone killl that youg man; i have never been a police officer but was married to an officer for the past 18 years; it is so obvious that there is fool play in this incident. what are the police doing in the country man
Posted By: One (Human) Family On: 9/24/2009
Title: Attn: Deborah Moss
I dont think anyone is indicting the entire Police force (we all know there are Officers worthy of wearing the uniform), and I dont wish to make this a you say/i say back and forth forum. However, you cannot deny the number of allegations lodged against officers in the courts - ranging from bribe taking, stealing, assualts, homicide (resulting in many convictions and summary expulsion from the Force or jail time - facts are facts). We, the Bahamian people, only ask that a proper investigatiion be done to dispel ANY doubt in the matter. However, hypothetically - if you were last seen in my company, then you die under questionable circumstances, ONLY to have me show up on your family's doorstep to let them know of your demise - I would hope that your family (knowing who they saw you with last) would not rest until it was proven to be that you in fact died as the result of a GENUINE accident. Thank you for your reply in any event....it means that awareness was raised and the dialogue was furthered. Have a blessed day!
Posted By: Gina On: 9/24/2009
Title: Deborah Moss
In response to your submission, there are 101 reasons not to trust the police when one is aware that proper protocol was not followed. The police force can verify that they were and are not always held in the highest regard. If you were privy to certain information and evidence, perhaps your statement wouldn't be so a**ackward and lopsided. Thank you!
Posted By: Paco Nunez, News Editor On: 9/24/2009
Title: To: S. JACKSON
We'd like to talk to your forensics contact. Could you forward an email or phone number to Paco Nunez, news editor at pnunez@tribunemedia.net or 242-502-2391 or forward Paco's contacts to your friend. Thanks
Posted By: Judy On: 9/24/2009
Title:
Thanks to the Tribune for bring this injustice to the fore; now the responsible thing lies at the feet of the Minister and the Commissioner; they have to be held accountable for the action or inaction of their subordinates. What else is going on in this country that we are not being made aware of? Thank God for this courageous family that came forth to share their story in an attempt to get justice. It is obvious that the members of the family are respectable people and would not waste the public’s time unless they were prepared to supply the necessary evidence to assist the police in bring the perpetrators to justice. Reginald Ferguson; be grateful for the evidence , take it and conduct the investigation.
Posted By: Paco Nunez, News Editor On: 9/24/2009
Title: TO: Ret. Det. Nathan Santine NY
Ret. Det. Nathan Santine NY --- we are working on follow up stories on this, and would really like to get in contact with you. Please email or call Paco Nunez, news editor, at pnunez@tribunemedia.net or call 242-502-2391
Posted By: Jennifer Rutherford On: 9/24/2009
Title: God sees your tears
When you’re up against a struggle that shatters all your dreams and your hopes have been cruelly crushed by Satan’s manifested schemes, and you feel the urge within you to submit to earthly fear, don’t let the faith your standing in seem to disappear. Praise the Lord” Pray without ceasing and cry tears of hope, for your loved one did not die in vain. When it is hard to put into words what I am feeling in my heart, I am grateful that God reads my heart. I don’t have to put it in words. Sometimes the best communication with God is tears. Tears are a language God understands.
Posted By: Cynthia B. On: 9/24/2009
Title:
Heavenly Father it is my prayer that justice is carried out on behalf of this young father; for the tragic way in which he lost his life. I continue to pray for the family members that must face challenging circumstances as they seek to ensure that their loved one truly “Rests in Peace” The conscience of those responsible will prick at them and without knowing how or why they will be lead to reveal their evil deeds; for God you know the heart of man for we can only see the outward appearance; father God I pray that you will lower the veil from their faces and bring them to open shame. Father your word will not return to you void; as I pray that weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning .
Posted By: Pissed off at Grand Isle On: 9/24/2009
Title: Pissed Off
Deborah Moss – if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quack like a duck; guess what trick; it is a duck…I am sure the family are sensible in their thinking and zeal to pursue this case; not to mention the information they have provided to the tribune and no doubt they have more evidence, and persons who can vouch for things done and said before and after the murder. Write back after the arrest conviction; in the event this does not answer your question about trusting the police. Have a stellar day!!!
Posted By: Deborah Moss On: 9/24/2009
Title: Why can't we trust the Police
Our Police force has always been held in high regard in our region and others look to us for the techniques used in solving crime; isn't it possible that is was merely a traffic accident as initially reported? Why would the police lies about this case?
Posted By: Ret. Det. Nathan Santine NY On: 9/24/2009
Title: It is not too late
I am a retired police detective with the New York Police department; and I have just read the article and read through almost 70 posts on this story alone; surely proper police procedures in crime scene analysis were not carried out. There is still enough evidence from photos and hopefully an accurate autopsy was conducted which will corroborate when the evidence in the vehicle speaks to. There must be some trace evidence still left in the vehicle; that your forensic lab techs can test for proper analysis. I was drawn to the website searching for news about the Travolta case; but never expected to find anything like this. I guess the Trovolta’s don’t stand a good chance of getting justice. There seems to be an increase in crime for such a small but beautiful country. My wife Judy and I visited back in 1992 when our youngest daughter won the spelling bee. It is never too late to solve a murder.
Posted By: Debbie Newbold On: 9/24/2009
Title: Murder Victim or Traffic Fatality
I think that this matter should be address on issues of the day because there are too many unanswered questions relating to this death. After reading the article in its entirety clearly it indicates that further investigations need to be made regarding this young man's death. It is the family's right to know in order to bring closure. Losing a loved one is hard enough. It is even harder when unanswered questions are not addressed. They deserve to know and the Police has a responsibility to ensure that their concerns are addressed. Thank you.
Posted By: Jay On: 9/24/2009
Title: Bloody Murder
The Police Force need to stop treating the Family Islanders as idiots!!!! We know that they keep the smarter officers in Nassau, but Exuma is populated and advanced enough for them to stop sending "Average Thinking Police" to the island. The Officer who decided, AND the Officer in Charge HAVE to be average thinkers to have deemed this as an accidental death. Come on now........ It's time to admit that the Force was WRONG and re-open this case!!!! My God!!! Had Stevie Wonder been on the scene HE would have cry BLOODY MURDER!!!!!!!!!!! O.K Guys... just say MY BAD and get to WORK. Haul the husband and wife behind in, question her and LOCK his tail UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted By: Bobo Ken On: 9/24/2009
Title: Odd....
Everyone either FROM Exuma or with close ties to Exuma seem to have more valid info than the police.....funny how a little actual police work could have uncovered all the dirt on the hands of the alleged suspects by now! But i guess if it is YOUR son or daughter and someone only whispers their name, you better go get a lawyer, cuz they lock up for sure! And will probably get a royal police cut a** special to quickly sign the phony confession too.... Better in the BAhamas?!?!? For who?!?!?! The CROOKS and the CROOKED eh?!?! But No rest for the wicked!!!! Hang ALL murderers (and their partners in the crime)!
Posted By: Donovan On: 9/24/2009
Title: MR PRESTON FERGUSON
Two or three episodes of "Court TV" now called "Tru TV" would equip one to conduct a more thorough, and satisfying investigation than that given by our very competent police officers! Maybe if trajedy struck THEIR lives/home there would be cause for a different approach? There are just TOO MANY unanswered, and very reasonable questions of doubt regarding the given police report of this very trajic incident! Someone's life was taken, and others grieve DEEPLY....is that not sufficient to listen, look, ponder, consider, sympathise, and simply do your job METICULOUSLY??? It's the least we can give Mr Ferguson, and his many loved ones! I pray and hope that politics, slothfulness, or no evil act would prevail in this matter! The Bahamas is watching! The world is watching! GOD IS WATCHING!! Does that mean anything? We ARE a christian nation!.......at times! Let this be one of them!! Bring closure to this family, please, in JESUS name!
Posted By: Jen Dames On: 9/24/2009
Title: And justice for all...
I'm very happy to see that the family is not letting this die. I've lived in Exuma for many years and know for a fact that, when vehicles were involved in a death, the vehicle was impounded. Why wasn't this done for Preston's? With all the unanswered questions raised by civilians, why didn't the police have the same concerns? How could this be determined as accidental so quickly? Preston was a quiet and loving person and did not deserve to die like this. This needs to be resolved so that the family can have closure and Preston can Rest In Peace.
Posted By: C. Smith On: 9/24/2009
Title: The struggle continues....
Let the facts stand for themselves and let the chips fall where they may. If that means egg on the face of The Minister and/or the Commissioner, so be it! Ultimately, all we want is the TRUTH, JUSTICE and CLOSURE.
Posted By: R. Farrington-Armaly On: 9/24/2009
Title: Tribune Please contact the family
Just visited the website that was recommended in a recent post; and this sounds like a perfect fit for this case; clearly there was alot of blood shown in the photos that are inconsistent with the "traffic accident" conclusion; check out the site; I hope the family members are checking back to see the posts and comments so that they can get the link provided; http://christmanforensics.com/bp_analysis.php; just a no prophet is accepted in his own hometown; it seems to be better in the bahamas but not for bahamians; it is time to choose what "type" of statistic you want to be.
Posted By: Roger Stamos - Baltimore, MD On: 9/24/2009
Title: Bloodstain Analysis Conviction
This family needs some closure and if there own local police agency is not going to provide that for them; then those who are concerned and have been touched by violent crime will have to assist. http://christmanforensics.com/cs_reconstruction.php My family and I have been helped by Dan and his team in 2006 after a similar situation where our son returned from fighting in Iraq and his wife and her lover hatched a plan of murder for hire; they are both now serving life sentences for his murder. The blood evidence was able to convict them. I pray you find justice in your pursuits.
Posted By: Eric Allen On: 9/24/2009
Title:
To anyone who has viewed this story and feel that SOMETHING wasnt done right, PLEASE forward this link to as many people as you can by social network (Facebook, Twitter, Tagged, etc.) OR by physical copy of the article. As the commercial states, INFECT TRUTH....JUSTICE must prevail or we are all doomed....it's just a matter of when and where if this crap continues!
Posted By: Ava On: 9/24/2009
Title:
I hope someone at the Tribune presses Tommy Turnquest and Reginald Ferguson for an update in this matter!!! The eyes of the world are upon us and the Emperor is as naked as a newborn....I am ashamed as a Bahamian! Here we are with some of the best and brightest minds, and the actions of a few lazy Police make us out to be no more than a bunch of backwards fishing villagers....Thanks alot Tommy/Reginald!
Posted By: James Rudder Alamosa County, Colorado On: 9/24/2009
Title: There is a story here folks...
"She picked him up as she was leaving Rolleville and he drove with her supposedly back to his place. He said he was going home; he had no reason to come back out," Mr Ferguson's nephew said. This statement alone should give the police a perfect starting point for a real investigation. I am sitting in the airport waiting a flight headed for my daughters wedding in Montana; a boating buddy sent me the link to the story; in 2006 we sailed the beautiful waters of the Exumas; he was astounded by the negligence of the local police in handling this matter. I share his concerns and would like to impress upon the proper authorities to start at the beginning; the pictures are not consistent with any kind of traffic accident. This woman was among the last people to see this young man alive. Get to the bottom of it. Such a beautiful island for such a tragedy.
Posted By: M. PINDER On: 9/24/2009
Title: SIMPLE MATHEMATICS>>>>
Two WRONGS dont make a RIGHT! An affair does not cancel out or justify MURDER....deal with your CHEATING spouse OR risk having to KILL off EVERY OTHER sweetheart to hold on to the TRASH!
Posted By: Janet M. On: 9/24/2009
Title: Prayer changes things
Pray, Pray, Pray, continue to pray for justice; God honours the prayers of the righteous. No good goes unrewarded and no ill deed goes unpunished.
Posted By: Shiobhan S. On: 9/24/2009
Title:
Let this be a lesson to every aspiring policeman, politician, even the MURDERER(s)....you can do wrong but for so long, but EVIL only prevails as long as good people do NOTHING! I pray that the FERGUSON Family (as every other family facing such loss) summons the strength to continue their FIGHT for TRUTH and JUSTICE! TOMMY T AND REG FERGUSON....HANG YOUR HEADS IN SHAME!! P.S. Thanks for eroding the goodwill banked up from the Ms Universe competetition...continue to make The Bahamas look like a bunch of backward, bumbling, corrupt people....and you wonder why investor confidence is down?!?!?!....you guys did your job WELL!!
Posted By: Anton Carey On: 9/24/2009
Title: WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WHY HASNT THE HUSBAND AND WIFE BEEN BROUGHT IN FOR QUESTIONING?!?!?!?! A ROOKIE COP - HECK, EVEN A CIVILIAN WOULD START WITH THEM AND FAN OUT FROM THERE WITH THE INVESTIGATION!!! TOMMY TURNQUEST AND REGINALD FERGUSON (BY EXTENTION, HUBERT INGRAHAM), THE WORLD VIA THE INTERNET IS WATCHING....AND THEY ALREADY ASSUME THE BAHAMAS TO BE STEEPED IN CRIME AND CORRUPTION....YOU HAVE A CHANCE TO RECTIFY THIS SITUATION AND ALLOW HIS SOUL TO REST IN PEACE AND THE FERGUSON FAMILY TO FIND CLOSURE IN A METTER THAT STEVIE WONDER/RAY CHARLES/BLIND BLAKE/PAUPER COULD FIGURE OUT JUST FROM HEARING THE EVIDENCE!!
Posted By: G. Holder-Rodgers On: 9/24/2009
Title: Too much evidence
The prime minister is always talking about being mandated to do this and that; would it be possible for him to mandate Reginald ferguson to do his job? Or better still mandate tommy Turnquest to earn his pay and demand that ferguson also do his job; if not for votes or popularity; then for God sake for justice and peace of mind in simply doing the RIGHT thing. Too much evidence to ignore.
Posted By: Bradley J. On: 9/24/2009
Title: Proper Investigation
Can the tribune get an update from the commissioner of police on this case? There is too much evidence, and that is only from what is said and shown in the paper to let this murder go as a traffic accident. Where are our police trained. Would it be possible for ADC Greenslade to spearhead this investigation; he seems to be a man who can get things done the right way.
Posted By: Pam On: 9/24/2009
Title: Get your house in order
To long now people in Exuma been getting away with murder; but oh God; now they pick the wrong family; although Preston might have done wrong it takes 2 to have an affair; and no reason to take a man life; deal with your bad wife and leave other people children alone. This is a praying family and God will see them clear. Go on in your fight for justice.
Posted By: Delores T. On: 9/24/2009
Title: Help...Pictures
Hi just tuning in; heard about the graphic pictures; can someone tell me how to view the pictures; I am only able to see a single picture. My prayers go out to the family; they must be having a really rough time dealing with this situation. But the story is enough to know that there needs to be more investigations into this matter.
Posted By: Jerome M. On: 9/24/2009
Title: God is able
Kudos to the Tribune and their staff for having the balls to tackle a ground breaking news story like this one. It has now come to seeking JUSTICE in the media; God bless you and the family. Reginald Ferguson hang your head in shame. Looking at some of the posts; I want to thank the person who wrote the prayer for the family; I hope they continue to pray that prayer into the atmosphere. God is able to do all things.
Posted By: Rodia Stuart - Self Employed On: 9/24/2009
Title: What a COVER UP!!!
Just wanted to add my “5 cents” my sister told me about the Tribune’s site only 15 minutes ago; is the commissioner aware of this site and aware that people all over the world can view their incompetence in handling this case; how in God’s name could this be an accident; accident maybe that the perpetrator (s) were unable to cover the murder of this young man better that what is shown in the pictures. These cannot be police photos; but the person who took them can definitely be an investigative reporter
Posted By: GMR On: 9/24/2009
Title: God's law will prevail...
Are any readers out there able to give advice that can benefit the family in getting outside help to deal with this matter; because it appears as if the local police are not interested in doing their job. Maybe the family can start a petition to seek legal advice going forward; but be encouraged and don’t give up and let your loved one’s life go in vain; an example has to be made of criminals who believe they can evade the law; the law of man because God’s law will bring them to justice.
Posted By: John & Rebecca On: 9/24/2009
Title: Horrified
As a winter resident and someone who enjoys living in Exuma; it was hard to hear about this tragedy; and more unnerving to actually read the story in the newspaper; and my God the pictures tell the entire story. My only contact with the police in Exuma occurred some years ago when a local guy removed an inflated tube/boat from our docking area and Lt. Cunningham dealt with the incident; which ended amicably. They were quick to respond; if only my small voice could appeal to the police to bring such a resolution to this terrible tragedy. Prayers for the family from Boston.
Posted By: Amanda R. Patel On: 9/24/2009
Title: Unsolved Murder Capital...EXUMA!
Can someone please ask Reginald Ferguson COP; why Exuma has become known as the “unsolved murder capital of the Bahamas. Exuma residents believe that it is because of the growing number of unsolved murders on that island. Mr. Commissioner; please eat from a freshly baked humble pie; admit that you and your men erred in judgment and move to bring justice to this family.
Posted By: Margaret On: 9/24/2009
Title: Traffic Accident?? NO WAY!
Reginald Ferguson COP...you and your men especially the ones in the family island (exua) need to know that long gone are the days in the family island are police matters focused on stealing goats and vegetables; we need real police/work to solve real crimes. Wake up man; you are plunging the Bahamas deep into hell. Do the right thing and leave the force because you are not effective as the top cop and your boss leaves much to be desired...Wake up Tommy T. Aint' Long NOW!
Posted By: A. Dominguez On: 9/23/2009
Title:
It is quite obvious that the police have not done their part to what is expected of them; the most daunting fact is that the woman and her husband are the ones to announce the tragedy. Too much evidence against the case being a murder is presented. What the family really wants is the truth.
Posted By: Dave Adams; Dillon S.C. USA On: 9/23/2009
Title: Avid Tribune Reader and Visitor.
I am an annual visitor to the Bahamas; and was excited when visiting and found out that the Tribune is now online; but saddened to see yesterday's publication regarding the incident in one of your beautiful family islands; one that my wife and I visited for the past 7 years during the yacht sailing competition. I hope this young man's family continues to bring light to the incident that took his life; from the graphic photos; it is obvious that barring an eye witness; it is obvious that he died at the vicious hand of a murdererl who should be brought to justice.
Posted By: Smitty On: 9/23/2009
Title: God Knows ALL Things
Oh, where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I lie in the grave, you are there. If I rise with the sun in the east, and settle in the west beyond the sea, even there you would guide me, with your right hand you would hold me. If I say, "Let the darkness hide me, and the light around me be as night." Even the darkness is not dark to you, and the night is as clear as the day.
Posted By: Be Blessed On: 9/23/2009
Title:
Father in the mighty name of Jesus; I beseech you to cover the family of the young man who was obviously killed in Exuma "traffic" accident; Father God; I stand in the gap for this hurting family as they go through their time of sorrow and testing; God as believers we know that you do all things well and plead on behalf of this family as you send your ministering angels to comfort them; as your hand of mercy moves swiftly to hush the voice of innocently shed blood; Father God; wherever the offenders are this night; your power of conviction will seek them out as they roam to and fro' upon this earth; Father God; we command a spirit of fear and anxiety upon them; God may they never find rest until they find rest in you with the confession of their actions; Father God, even now I pray that the actions of a night of terror is brought into the light; in Jesus mighty name this is my prayer. Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. ~ Acts 3: 19
Posted By: Alexis M On: 9/23/2009
Title: Unacceptable...
Upon reading this sad story, I am shocked and dissapointed at the level of pure stupidity shown by the police in this tragic case. Ladies and gentleman this is NOT a mysterious case, that has absolutely no clues. The evidence is everywhere to be found! From the broken glass found on the PASSENGER side of the car, to the one and only sign of trauma to the body that (by the way) is inconsistent with the damage on the car. The evidence screams out "Homicide"! The way the police is handling this case is unacceptable, and my heart goes out to the family members of the victim. I pray and hope that true justice is served and that those who are responsible for this crime are given their just reward.
Posted By: LK On: 9/23/2009
Title: Justice Needs to Be Serve!!!
It is quite obvious that this entire incident is stage and with all the evidence that shows that this was planned the Police officers are acting blind to this matter. Something needs to be done about this because if something is not done about this, it means that anything could happen in our country and just fly by.
Posted By: M. Sabrina On: 9/23/2009
Title: What a tangled web we weave....
I cry shame on the Commissioner of police and his Exuma team, especially, the patrol officers who "discovered" the scene and determined that Preston Ferguson died as the result of a traffic accident. Stevie Wonder can see that this was not an accident! Something about this incident and its investigation(s) smells, and its not pretty! I expect some heads to roll as a result of this incredulously botched investigation or lack thereof.
Posted By: Claudia On: 9/23/2009
Title: Justice Now!!!
My condolences to the Ferguson family. I appreciate the fact that they are not settling and will not allow their loved one to become just another statistic, and, that they are insisting that this death, his death is registered for what it is: MURDER! The man and woman involved should be brought to CDU post haste!
Posted By: Erin On: 9/23/2009
Title: Murder by any other name is still MURDER!
I doubt there has been a meeting with the family and the familiar script about the Police "actively investigating" is getting stale Mr. Commissioner....had they done any real police work, the main suspects would have been picked up>interrogated>charged by now!
Posted By: Roy Johnson - Eastwood Est On: 9/23/2009
Title: Prime Minister Ingraham
This is now a matter for the Prime Minister of this country; I wonder if the family has been contacted by the relevant officials since the article? Mr. Prime Minister; call upon you Minister and his subordinates to be accountable to the people that gave you the opportunity to serve; yet again…
Posted By: Solomon On: 9/23/2009
Title: God is in CONTROL
This is ludicrous; was just told about the tribune website; saw the article yesterday; the pictures on the web are even more graphic than the newspaper; There is a cold case investigator in Miami who would be able to conduct a proper investigation and give the family some closure; sad enough to loose a loved one but in such a manner in unthinkable. Can the tribune find out what the outcome has been from the commissioners meeting with the family since the article hit the news stands; or was there a meeting? To the Ferguson family; God is ALWAYS on the throne; continue to trust Him.
Posted By: Abaco Parrot On: 9/23/2009
Title:
It's a sad day in The Bahamas when you have to consider external and independent investigations because you have NO faith in the Police and the justice system as a whole! Commissioner, hang your head in shame and Tommy, go and find some other profession....the next elections won't see you returning to make a bigger mess of the country! BELIEVE THAT!! And I never voted PLP in my LIFE (but even a piece of wood is more effective)! But this is a NATIONAL disgrace, not a partisan issue....GET IT RIGHT IN THE NAME OF GOD!
Posted By: Captain Bahamas On: 9/23/2009
Title: GAME PLAN 101
OK, Commisioner of Police, let me tell what you SHOULD do (cuz after all those years in that comfy armchair u usually do your interviews from on tv, you dont have it anymore).... 1. assemble and dispatch a team of your better investigative officers from Nassau (the ones in Exuma only marking time) 2. bring the husband and wife in for questioning (but do so in seperate interrogation rooms) and do so THOROUGHLY 3. review the FACTS of what occurred that night (up to the time she was last seen with him) 4. determine how and why the husband was able to get in her company to visit the house of the victim to deliver the bad news (no doubt - about a fellow he had only threatened in recent times regarding involvement with that same woman....hmmmm - this stuff writes itself with a little effort, Reg) 5. crack the case and refute the bs claims of a traffic accident (with an apology to the family for sloppy police work that you no doubt condoned) 6. lock up the murderer(s) and his/her accomplice(s) - charging ALL concerned as the law allows, THEN (dont miss THIS ONE!).... 7. RETIRE and live out the rest of your years with some DIGNITY and pride in a job WELL DONE (and maybe the public will forget about this travesty of justice)
Posted By: S. Jackson On: 9/23/2009
Title: Justice is coming
After emailing the article to a member of the Broward County Sheriff's department Forensic Lab; who happens to be a Bahamian/naturalized American; he informed me that this case needs to be properly investigated; because there is no way the death of this young man should have been categorized as an accident; it is obvious that whoever lost that amount of blood on the passenger side of the vehicle; was in a laying down (horizontal) position on the floor of the vehicle; which contributed to the amount of blood flowing to the drivers side; the person who drove the vehicle to the spot where it was found was not the same person who lost that amount of blood on the floor of the vehicle. A press conference is needed to reveal all of the information and evidence available.
Posted By: Corey Saunders On: 9/23/2009
Title:
As they say....today for me, tomorrow it might be you....I pray to GOD that the Commisioner or Tommy Turnquest never have to prematurely bury a loved one under questionable circumstances and find themselves stonewalled behind a barrage of lies and inept investigations. Especially when the facts of the case are all there....the only thing left to do is bring the people in and do proper POLICE WORK then let the chips fall where they may!
Posted By: J. Riley On: 9/23/2009
Title: Lack Lustre RBPF
After following up with a close friend in Exuma after the newpaper article was published; I was informed that one of the officers who went to Exuma to "investigate" the murder inclusive of taking pictures took the pictures and left his camera; which was returned to him by a member of the victim's family...was the officer there merely on a paid vacation...Why is Reginald Ferguson - Police Commissioner still sitting in his office after a blunder like this; for that matter why is the Minister still the Minister...Oh Lord let me live to see the next election!
Posted By: R. Wright On: 9/23/2009
Title: A case of murder!! Plain and simple...
WAKE UP BAHAMAS! WHEN WILL THE POLICE AND THE POLITICIANS CHARGED WITH THE SECURITY OF THE NATION BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE?!?!? STOP LOOKING FOR VOTES OR APPROVAL RATINGS!!! FIGHT CRIME AND PROSECUTE THE OFFENDERS (WHOEVER and WHERE EVER THEY MAY BE)!!
Posted By: Amos On: 9/23/2009
Title:
Who is surprised here?!?!? There is only thorough police work when it involves the friends or family of politicians or police....SHAME ON ALL CONCERNED WHO DO WRONG AND THOSE WHO HELP THEM GET AWAY WITH IT!
Posted By: Neville On: 9/23/2009
Title:
EVERY MURDER OR SUSPICIOUS DEATH CASE SHOULD BE AS IMPORTANT AS ANY ELECTION VOTE OR POLITICALLY APPOINTED POST....POWERS THAT BE - TAKE A HINT OR TAKE A WALK....
Posted By: M. Thompson On: 9/23/2009
Title: Follow up NEEDED...
I hope the TRIBUNE does a follow up to this story and this was not an attempt to gain readership and newspaper sales! People are hurting in this country and crying out for HELP and JUSTICE! Please put the Commisioner's feet to the fire and stop the lies and cover-ups within the Police Force and the Justice system on the whole....
Posted By: Travis On: 9/23/2009
Title:
Why have the last people (seen with this man) not been brought in for questioning?!?!? RIDICULOUS!! I hope the Commisioner is ashamed of his legacy on the Police force while the country sinks deeper in to despair! Tommy Turnquest MAKE the officers under your charge DO THEIR JOBS....OR step DOWN from your post!
Posted By: O. Bodie On: 9/23/2009
Title:
Thank God for The Tribune giving voice to the voiceless and bringing TRUTH to light! The Police Commisioner would have swept this under the rug as an accident and the Minister of National Security is only looking for photo ops/opportunity to dazzle us with stats on crime (like we cant look out our windows or talk with friends/neighbors)/votes in the next election! The rank and file of the Police are not impressed with the Commisioner and the electorate will pay Tommy back for all the sons/daughters we have lost while he plays the numbers game with crime stats!
Posted By: M. Robinson On: 9/23/2009
Title:
I hate to say it, but vigilante justice will be the order of the day if the Police don't get off their a**es and do the WORK they are being PAID to do by the people they are to SERVE and PROTECT! I have friends who were in Exuma that holiday weekend and they could not stop talking about how a murder was being covered up and the Police were treating it as an accident. Now hearsay is hearsay, but effective Police work would prove/disprove these allegations!!
Posted By: Sheryl Sawyer On: 9/23/2009
Title: Slackness abounds....
The country is going to HELL and Tommy does NOT have a handle on the crime situation!! I feel sorry for him because he will be a seatless wonder if this persists going in to the next election! And by reason of believing his own hype or living with his head in the sand (or worse), he seems to have no clue as to what his portfolio entails OR how serious things are getting!
Posted By: T. Jones On: 9/23/2009
Title: Sad....
ow do you threaten a man at his own party over your "wife" then that person winds up dead....only to have the same husband and wife being the bearers of the bad news?!?!? ONLY IN THE BAHAMAS!!
Posted By: ~*The Watcher*~ On: 9/23/2009
Title: Shame, shame, shame....
This situation is soooo indicative of the type of "policing" the Minister of Defence and the Commisioner of Police are advocating to the rank and file! I guess you have to harm one of theirs to get proper police investigations conducted eh? Then again, they would probably fast track your arrest/trial/hanging/burial all in the same damn day! SHAME ON THE MURDERER(S) AND ALL WHO FACILITATE THEM ROAMING FREE!!
Posted By: Reds in Nassau On: 9/23/2009
Title:
very sloppy work by the police i guess its who you know not justice. The police are not just sloppy they seem to not care the higher ups need to get off their ----- and do something about this sloppy investigation. My props to the Ferguson family do not let it go, keep on digging.
Posted By: Smoothtalker On: 9/23/2009
Title:
All talk , no action against situations and conditions such as this will never get an accountable response from any one in the elected or hired positions accountiblity in this country. It's known (not believed) to these people that the citizens of this nation prefers a gossip opportunity rather than facts and even when presented with facts they get stonewalled, and the next juicy bit of gossip diverts their attention and nothing changes...the beat goes on!!!!
Posted By: Darren On: 9/22/2009
Title: Murder...
This story makes me want to throw up...Who is responsible for the "training" of these officers?? The Police Force need to be revamped from top to bottom. It's obvious the blind is leading the blind...Where there is no vision the people perish. Egg in face again Mr. Police Commissioner!!!
Posted By: MPS On: 9/22/2009
Title: Justice
Justice delayed...but not denied. The Police need to step up and do the right thing! Do what you are supposed to do...protect and serve! Enough of the inefficiency. We are one more family in this country experiencing the heartache of the heartless murder of our loved one. I appeal to those within the rank and file of The Police, and members of the general public who might have information to help bring those who are responsible for Preston's death to give account before the court. Take a stand against crime.
Posted By: Dee On: 9/22/2009
Title: Preston Ferguson's Murder
Disappointed, disgusted, angry are just some of the words to describe how I feel about the Bahamian Police's handling of this incident. I am appalled of how slack and lazy some members of the police force are. How many murderers are walking free because of sloppy police work??!!
Posted By: Michelle On: 9/22/2009
Title: What a Disgrace
Could someone please show me a video tape of how a man is found dead sitting behind the wheel of a car and so called broken glass from the “accident” is found under the victim…hmmm! Let’s see; did he slam his vehicle sideways into a tree or pole that was not in the vicinity of the vehicle; smash the window; then jump back into the vehicle on the broken glass and put his head on the head rest and died from the blow to the middle of his forehead? Now I would pay to see that video/motion picture. And it shall come to pass, that if any persons among you shall akill they shall be delivered up and dealt with according to the laws of the land; for remember that he hath no forgiveness; and it shall be proved according to the laws of the land.
Posted By: M. Collette On: 9/22/2009
Title: Murder...
It is obvious that the police were negligent in this investigation; judging from the photos shown in the newspaper; the evidence supports the family’s account of events. If a family member of a prominent official was last seen in the company of a certain individual; and a few short hours later was found dead under “staged” circumstances; no doubt that individual would have been questioned; especially if that same individual along with their spouse was the bearer of the tragic news to family members. Come on Royal Bahamas Police Force; armchair CSI investigators could solve this one. I would gladly donate to the family to have independent investigators come to the Bahamas to conduct a “real” investigation.
Posted By: K.B. On: 9/22/2009
Title:
This is such an outrage. If the statements by Mrs. Moxey are true then the police officers who handled this investigation should be fired, because either they are totally incompetent or this is a cover up. It is time for all desent law abiding Bahamians to stand up for our fellow Bahamians when they are wronged especially when its by those who are suppose to be protecting us.
Posted By: Tisch On: 9/22/2009
Title:
I'm a Bahamian student at the University of Windsor in Windsor,Ontario. I am disappointed in the sloppy work of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and how they handled this incident. It is obvious that Preston Ferguson was murdered and did not die due to a traffic accident. First and foremost the female that he left Rolleville with, should be picked and questioned. I am outraged!
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