Youth Shot Dead

By Hawkins Nanton

Saturday, March 11 was supposed to be a very special day for Brenton “Quinne” McLean – that was the day he was celebrating his 23rd birthday.

To pass the day he chose to go hunting for iguanas, but tragedy struck in the Reviere Hills just after 10 a.m. and marred the McCarthy resident’s birthday celebration when a homemade shotgun carried by one of his friends discharged, shooting him in the mouth. {{more}}

Reports claim that McLean’s two hunting partners brought him down from the hills to Junction, Enhams, to get help but their efforts were futile as he succumbed to his injuries when they got there.

Cynthia McLean, breaking down in tears, told SEARCHLIGHT that same morning she had asked her son to stay at home when he told her that he was going hunting. She stated that occasion was the first time he was going hunting for the year.

“A lady came and told me that Quinne is dead. I did not believe, then the police came and told me,” said Cynthia who was unable to go to the scene because of problems with her feet.

“I am feeling so sad; I can’t even eat or sleep,” the grieving mother said as she mourned the loss of her first born. She described him as an easygoing young man.

Lecia McLean, Brenton’s younger sister, said when she received the news she was hoping that it was not true. Though she did not believe, she said she started crying. Her worst fears were confirmed when she got to Junction, Enhams and saw her brother’s lifeless body lying in the road.

Sentiments of grief were also expressed by Eden Tosh of LaCroix who raised Brenton from birth until the age of 22.

Tosh said she was shocked when she received the news. She recalled that after Cynthia took sick Brenton thought it was best to transfer to his biological mother’s home a few months ago to assist her.

“He was a quiet guy who was never rude to me,” said Tosh.

On Monday, police arrested 17-year-old Randy Williams of Diamond and charged him with causing Brenton’s death. Williams was charged with manslaughter at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday. He was granted bail in the sum of $5000 with one surety. He is expected to report to the Calliaqua Police Station every Tuesday and Thursday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. until the Preliminary Inquiry on April 24, 2006.