A formal request has been made for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to assist in the investigation into the shooting death of 60-year-old Frankie Gooding back in January this year.
Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr Ralph Gonsalves said during the Obituaries segment in Parliament on February 23 extended condolences to the family, which include Leader of the Opposition Dr Godwin Friday of the slain businessman.
“[I] hope we get to the bottom of this particular killing…all homicides,” Gonsalves said.
“I can say that the Commissioner of Police (Colin John) has been in touch and in consultation with the FBI and has formerly requested their assistance in this matter,” he continued.
Gooding, who resides in Lauderhill, Florida had recently opened a supermarket on the Grenadine Island of Bequia and was shot and killed around 7:30 pm on January 21 by an unknown assailant just after closing.
A video has surfaced since the shooting occurred, showing the assailant standing over the businessman and appears to discharge the weapon.
“There are particular matters in it (the case) which require some assistance,” Gonsalves told members of Parliament.
Gooding’s widow, Mary Gooding had first indicated that the family was offering US$5,000 as a cash reward to anyone coming forward with information leading to the arrest of the gunman.
An interview with US media sometime later revealed that she had also contacted the FBI and the US Embassy to investigate her husband’s death.