Almost two months after a man was shot and killed in front of his house in Cotton Tree village, another resident was murdered in a similar fashion. Jomarie Lanza spoke to the family of the victim in Sunday's fatal shooting.
They lured him out of his house and shot him dead in his yard just after 1:00am on Sunday. 31 year old Otoniel Perez, employee of Santander, had lived in this apartment in Cotton Tree village for only a few years. His neighbors described him as a calm and friendly individual, which is why they were shocked to learn about his violent end.
ACP Hilberto Romero, OC Eastern Division
Upon their arrival they found the lifeless body of Otoniel Mateo, 31 years with gunshot injuries. Information received that Mateo was at his room when he heard a knock on his door. He came out and 2 persons were there and were involved in a fight thereafter and he was shot. His body was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. We are seeking two known suspects for this murder at this time."
"This stemmed over a dispute over a female."
Police are now in search of two male suspects. Perez's older brother spoke with us today at the Roaring Creek police station, and says that the family doesn't know who or why anyone would want to hurt their relative.
Jovani Perez, Brother of deceased
"He was in his room and yes someone came and took him out."
Jo-
"Do you know who?"
Jovani Perez, Brother of deceased
"No we don't, we don't know, up to now we still don't know. I was at work when my wife called my boss, and then she informed her workers and they gave the notice to me."
"He was a good brother, and I never never thought this would happen. I will always remember him, the brother that he was yes."
Jo-
"Do you have other siblings?"
Jovani Perez, Brother of deceased
"Yes but it's not the same with them you understand?"
A grief filled mystery for this family - and for police the third murder in this small village - which is under the SOE - since July.
