A 26-year-old man of Beach Road, Palo Seco is to be charged with Murder following investigations surrounding the death of 12-year-old Mercedez Layne, of Los Iros Road, Erin, who was reported missing on Saturday 6th June, 2026, and whose body was subsequently discovered along Carapal Road, Erin, on Sunday 7th June, 2026. Investigations were conducted by officers of the Homicide Bureau and advice was received today from Special Advisor Ms. Honore Paul to charge the suspect, who is due to appear beforea Master of the High Court on Thursday 11th June, 2026.

Commissioner of Police, Allister Guevarro commented on the matter stating, “The entire Trinidad and Tobago Police Service stands with Mercedes’ family and with every parent, guardian, and community member who are hurting today. The loss of this child through this heinous crime, is a wound to the nation’s soul. No child in this country should ever have their future stolen by violence, and no family should ever have to carry this kind of pain”.

“As Commissioner, I want our citizens to know that we approached this investigation with empathy, urgency, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Our children deserve to grow up safe, protected, and surrounded by a society that values their innocence. The TTPS will continue to do everything in our power to shield them from harm and to hold accountable anyone who threatens their safety.”