On Wednesday, May 1st, 2019, Dr. the Hon. Duane Sands released a statement in the form of a communication to the House of Assembly, on the death of a US national, Alain Perez.
The statement read as follows:
“The community of Bimini was shocked and deeply saddened by the unfortunate death of Bimini resident and US national Mr. Alain Perez, on Sunday 28th April.
Mr. Perez was the owner of Bimini Big John’s Bar and Grill, and had lived on the island for several years.
According to police reports, Mr. Perez was shot multiple times while at his residence, shortly after 1 am.
He was taken to the clinic on the island but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
The Government of The Bahamas strongly condemns this random and heinous act of violence.
It is unfortunate when these incidents happen anywhere in the world and we are saddened that such an incident took place on the island Bimini.
I wish to address erroneous reports about the quality of health care that Mr. Perez received at the clinic in Bimini, and the mis-characterization of the clinic as inadequate.
The clinic in Alice Town, Bimini is well-equipped and modern, and the services offered are appropriate for the needs of the community, which has a population of around 2,000 residents, and welcomes thousands of visitors annually.
The clinic is also staffed by a full-time Bahamian board-certified physician and a qualified medical team.
The facility is comparable to the facilities serving small communities in most countries.
As Minister of Health, I am satisfied that the care of Mr. Perez was appropriately managed and the appropriate treatment was administered.
At the clinic, Mr. Perez received Advanced Trauma Life Support treatment, which is used by medical providers in the management of acute trauma cases.
All efforts to seek specialist care were made. The offer to transport Mr. Perez unattended in an airplane on the ramp without medical staff was inappropriate, and air ambulances from Florida and Nassau were contacted.
Mr. Perez presented in shock from the multiple gunshot wounds and unfortunately succumbed to his injuries less than two hours after his arrival to the clinic.
Mr. Perez’ body was flown to Nassau and an autopsy is being performed today.
The situation surrounding the unfortunate death of Mr. Perez is under active investigation by the Royal Bahamas Police Force, which is using every available resource to bring this matter to a conclusion.
As a destination we welcome millions of visitors to our shores annually, and The Bahamas takes any incident affecting a visitor very seriously.
We offer our most sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Perez during this difficult time.”
Communication to the House of Assembly
Dr. the Hon. Duane Sands
Minister of Health
1 May 2019
