By Robert Andre Emmanuel
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB) has mounted a full-scale homicide investigation following the death of prominent Member of Parliament for St Peter, 54-year-old Asot Michael, who was found unresponsive in his Dry Hill home yesterday.
Authorities received a call just after 8am yesterday, after the late MP’s maid discovered his body with serious injuries.
The police and emergency medical personnel responded immediately, and shortly after the district medical officer Dr Gore pronounced MP Michael dead at the scene.
“It is one of those sad moments that we have to address as investigators,” Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney stated during an impromptu press conference held at the scene.
He confirmed that initial examinations revealed “injuries on the body which now opens up a homicide investigation as to the circumstances that led to those injuries”.
According to Commissioner Rodney, the initial examination made by the medical officer revealed “a large wound in his chest area” and was found in the corridor of his home.
Born in Guadeloupe on 21 December 1969, the late politician has been involved in business and politics through his father Patrick Michael and namesake grandfather supporting Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).
After his foray into politics in 1995, MP Michael served as Chief of Staff in the Office of the late Prime Minister Sir Lester Bird, appointed Government Senator with responsibility for Public Works, Communications, Insurance, Energy and the St John’s Development Corporation, then Senate Leader of Government Business.
In 2004, he was elected to represent St Peter and has done so until his untimely passing, also serving as Minister of Trade and Investment, Tourism, and Junior Minister of Finance.
In 2023, Asot Michael, following his exile from the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party, became the first person in Antigua to be elected as an Independent MP in Parliament.
Commissioner Rodney described the late MP Michael as a person who “has been that person to have assisted so many persons across Antigua and beyond”.
The police said they have already interviewed the maid, who was the only other person believed to have been present in the home at the time, though they said she was shaken by the incident.
Authorities also indicated they are examining the crime scene for potential evidence and surveillance footage, but stressed it was still the early stages of the investigation.
Commissioner Rodney assured the public that a full update will be provided following a case conference involving the investigative team.
He reiterated the importance of the public’s support and cooperation in helping to solve this loss.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that police officers have currently apprehended a person of interest and is questioning them.
Police PRO Frankie Thomas did not independently confirm this report to Observer media but said that investigators are questioning multiple persons in relation to the death and said an official press release will be made once investigators complete their inquiry.
With the death of the late MP Michael, a by-election for the St Peter constituency will need to be held within 120 days.
