Father Of Slain Prison Officer Speaks Out

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A 23-year-old Bahamas Department of Corrections officer was fatally stabbed during a violent altercation early Wednesday morning, marking the country’s latest homicide.

Police say the incident unfolded just before 2 a.m. at the Blue Ice Nightclub on Blue Hill Road, where a dispute escalated into a fight. Three men, ages 21, 23, and 28, were stabbed during the altercation. The victim has been identified as Ashantino Johnson, who had only been on the job for just over a year.

His father, Clement Johnson, speaking to Our News from Eleuthera, described his son as a “quiet, respectful, and hardworking young man” who stayed out of trouble and was focused on building a better life.

“He had manners and respect for everybody,” the grieving father said. “He never got himself in trouble.”

Johnson says his son recently visited home to celebrate his birthday, not knowing it would be the last time they saw each other.

“I was happy to see him,” he recalled. “He was asking what I could do, but I didn’t have nothing in mind.”

Police reports indicate that after the stabbing, a male suspect confronted an off-duty police officer outside the nightclub, leading to a struggle. The officer’s service weapon was discharged, grazing the suspect in the head.

The other two victims remain hospitalized as police continue their investigation. No arrests have been made.

Johnson’s father says he’s relying on faith as he mourns the loss of his second son and hopes justice will be served.

“I hope the law do what it got to do,” he said quietly.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact them as the investigation continues.