Richardson family forgive killer

The grieving family of murder victim VerNeil Richardson today offered forgiveness to the killer of the 21-year-old.

A statement issued on behalf of the family said: “As followers of Christ and his example, our desire is for peace in our community and forgiveness of whoever may have been involved in the murder of our dear son.”

And they pleaded for anyone with information about the murder to come forward.

Mr Richardson, an electrician from Hamilton Parish, was stabbed outside Bailey’s Bay Cricket Club in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The statement, delivered by family minister Paul Richards of the Church of Christ on Brighton Hill Road, said: “We encourage you to help us and the community to understand what took place that evening.”

The statement added: “Our beloved son has left this earth now and the grieving process has begun. But in the midst of our pain and sorrow, we are also concerned about those left behind to deal with this misfortune.”

The family also thanked the island for “the community’s outpouring of love and support during this very difficult time.”

And they said: “We believe that our son’s life had a purpose and that he did not die in vain. It is our sincere hope and prayer that some young person somewhere seeks to find God and his grace as a result of this tragedy.

“This is our prayer, not only for this situation, but for our entire Bermuda community.”

Anyone with information on the killing should contact police or the confidential and anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline on 800 8477.

Adam Leroy King, 34, was charged with the murder of Verneil Richardson at Magistrates' Court on Friday. The case will be heard at Supreme Court.