Coroner’s Inquest to Be Held Into Death of Inmate Rashawn Shabbaz

The findings of a preliminary probe have been released, following the death of inmate Rashawn ‘Turtle’ Shabbaz on July 23, 2026.

Shabbaz was pronounced dead at hospital after a fracas in his cell, as the police responded to a request from prison authorities for help on subduing him.

Prison Superintendent Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Pennyfeather says police were instructed to use minimum force when extracting the inmate from his cell.

The prison superintendent’s report addressed to Attorney General and Public Safety Minister the Hon. Sir Steadroy Benjamin, says Shabazz was due to be taken to the medical station following his refusal to take his psychiatric medication for several weeks.

However, the report says Shabazz, wielding a 2×4 length of wood, barricaded himself in his cell, uttering threats to anyone who attempted to enter.

A separate report from Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers says officers used smoke (tear gas) to gain entry, after an earlier attempt by prison officers to use pepper spray was unsuccessful.

Lt Col. Pennyfeather’s report corroborates the police’s use of an irritant, adding that rubber bullets were also used in the extraction process.

Shabazz, who was said to be unconscious at the time, was transported to hospital where he was deemed unresponsive and later pronounced dead.

AG Benjamin says a coroner’s inquest will be held into Shabbaz’s death, in efforts to ensure full transparency.

The fresh developments come a day ahead of a planned picket by the inmate’s father, demanding justice for his son’s death.