By PAVEL BAILEY
Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 26-year-old man denied his involvement in a double homicide outside a bar in Harbour Island, Eleuthera, earlier this year.
One of the victims was on bail for murder at the time of his death.
Prosecutors allege Samson Joseph fatally shot Khristen “Tum Tum” Francis and Michael Reckley shortly after midnight on February 23.
The victims, both in their 30s, were standing outside Sammy’s Bar when the defendant, dressed in black, allegedly approached and opened fire.
Mr Francis, a local waiter who was on bail for murder, was pronounced dead at the island’s clinic. Mr Reckley, a father of a young girl and an autistic boy, died at the scene. Witnesses told his family that his last words were to tell his wife he loved her.
Residents said the men had been inside the bar moments earlier. Mr Francis told friends he was stepping outside to smoke, while Mr Reckley stood beside him. Seconds later, witnesses heard about seven shots. Patrons rushed outside and found both men lying on the ground.
Mr Francis had been charged in connection with the shooting death of Drew Storr in Eleuthera on November 28, 2021. Relatives described him as humble, cheerful and hospitable.
Joseph pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder before Justice Guillimina Archer-Minns.
The defendant was informed that his trial date would be fixed before the same court on September 16. Until then, he will be remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.
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