Dominicans react to murder of student doctor Velma Valmond
The murder of student doctor Velma Valmond has sent shockwaves across Dominica.
Valmond,35, was found dead by police yesterday in the bathroom of her home shortly after they received reports about a domestic dispute.
Cops said Valmond had a large laceration across her neck.
A 32-year-old man, who was known to Valmond, was also found in the bathroom in a state of distress and police suspect he may have consumed a poisonous substance.
He was taken to Dominca-China Friendship Hospital and was warded in a stable condition yesterday.
Dominicans and persons, who knew Valmond, took to social media to express their outrage following her murder.
“In our last call, I told you how much I love you. When we met, you told me how much you love me and proud of me. I told you I can’t wait for the day you become Dr Velma Valmond. And you replied ‘But you have to become Dr Maureen Valmond too’,” Valmond’s relative wrote in a Facebook post.
“I will miss our calls. I will miss the impromptu moments in our discussions when I would ask-‘So Vel, which side do you want? The professional Maureen or the dramatic Kahina’ and you would say ‘Both because I love both sides’ and we would laugh.”
Cozier Frederick, Minister for the Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, said Dominica’s indigenous community has “lost a gem”.
“She was a very warm and happy young lady who always had a smile for everyone. The Kalinago community lost a gem. May the great spirits guide her home. Our prayers are with her daughter Daisey who is currently at the hospital. We wish her a speedy recovery and we mourn with her,” he wrote in a statement.
A resident of the Kalinago community wrote: “Velma was one of the few Kalinago who left the Territory but never left. She had a warm greeting a smile and kind words always…amid a violent death may your soul rest in eternal peace.”
Another person commented: “What has Dominica become? Seventeen people have lost their lives this year due to violence. This country needs a shake-up fast.”
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Service condemned acts of domestic violence as it sent condolences to Valmond’s family.
A spokesperson for the ministry said it will be extending resources to the bereaved family.
0 Comment