Debt Dispute Turns Deadly: Woman Fatally Stabbed in Chaguanas Confrontation

A tragic confrontation over an alleged unpaid debt ended in the death of 25-year-old Shayanna Ruiz on Wednesday evening in Chaguanas. The victim, a resident of Diego Martin, was reportedly at a residence in Edinburgh South to collect TT$4,500 she claimed was owed by her former boyfriend.

According to police reports, an argument broke out between Ruiz and her ex-boyfriend, escalating further when his current girlfriend allegedly joined the fray. Tensions rose, leading to the other woman allegedly arming herself with a knife and stabbing Ruiz multiple times on the left side of her body. The assailant and the ex-boyfriend then fled the scene.

Emergency services rushed Ruiz to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, but despite the efforts of medical professionals, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. She had suffered multiple stab wounds to her chest, shoulder, face, and left arm.

Police have since recovered an 11-inch black-handled knife believed to be the weapon used in the attack. Investigators are examining several CCTV cameras in the vicinity, hoping the footage will shed light on the incident. Meanwhile, Ruiz’s body has been transferred to the Forensic Science Centre for an autopsy as police continue their inquiries into the homicide.