Popular vocalist Jermaine ‘Chubby’ Clarke, lead singer of the Kollision Band, was shot and killed in what police have described as an execution-style attack in Keys Village during the early hours of Sunday, April 5, sending shockwaves across St. Kitts and Nevis.
According to the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, the incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. when Clarke, 39, of College Street, was seated in his vehicle with a female passenger. One or more armed assailants reportedly approached the vehicle and opened fire, striking Clarke multiple times.
Authorities said Clarke sustained numerous gunshot wounds in what investigators believe was a targeted killing. Police reports indicate that as many as 11 bullets were fired during the attack.
Both Clarke and the female passenger were transported by private vehicle to the Joseph N. France General Hospital. Clarke later succumbed to his injuries. The female occupant, though not shot, sustained injuries during the incident and remains under medical care.
Crime Scene Unit officers recovered items of evidential value as investigators intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible. Police are urging anyone with information to contact the nearest police station or call Crime Stoppers at 707.
Initial reports indicate that Clarke had just concluded a performance in Keys Village before the shooting occurred.
The killing has sparked an outpouring of grief across the Federation, particularly within the entertainment community. Government Minister with responsibility for Sports, Small Business, Entrepreneurship, Cooperatives and the Creative Economy, Samal Duggins, confirmed Clarke’s death in an official statement issued Sunday.
Duggins described Clarke as more than just an entertainer, calling him “a spirit, a presence, and a voice that brought joy, energy, and connection to so many.”
“Today, we mourn not just a talented musician, but a young man who carried and championed the unique sound of our Federation,” the minister said, noting Clarke’s significant contributions to the cultural landscape of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Condolences have also poured in from the National Secretariat for Human Security and Wellbeing, which expressed deep sadness over the tragic loss.
In its statement, the Secretariat described Clarke as a talented entertainer and father whose contribution to the country’s creative sector will be remembered, while emphasizing that every life lost to gun violence represents a profound tragedy for families and communities.
The agency also urged citizens to exercise restraint and seek peaceful conflict resolution, particularly during the Easter holiday period. Officials reminded the public that counseling referrals and intervention services are available, encouraging individuals and families in need of support to reach out.
Authorities also highlighted that St. Kitts and Nevis has made progress in reducing violent crime in recent years, crediting a combination of strong law enforcement and public health approaches to crime prevention. Officials stressed the importance of maintaining those gains through continued collaboration between citizens, law enforcement, and national institutions.
Meanwhile, Clarke’s death has left fans, friends, and supporters — including his loyal following known as the “Teflon Dons” — mourning the sudden loss of a popular performer widely known for his energetic stage presence.
Police investigations into the fatal shooting remain ongoing as the nation grapples with yet another act of gun violence and calls grow louder for justice in the killing of the beloved entertainer.
