The family of a young Enfield man shot dead at midnight four years ago have begged for help in tracking-down the number one suspect – believed to have fled abroad.
Duane Tomlin, 20, (pic.top) was gunned down as he got out of a mini-cab in Dendridge Close on July 5, 2007.
Police are still hunting chief suspect Robert Bernard, 28, (pic.bottom) who fled to Thailand hours after the shooting and who has family ties to Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago and St. Lucia.
A white Vauxhall Combo van began following Tomlin’s mini-cab and shots were fired as he got out near his family home and he was fatally injured.
The minicab driver was uninjured but was later treated at hospital suffering shock.
The van was found abandoned and on fire a short time later in nearby Lackmore Road.
Detective Chief Inspector John Crossley of Operation Trident – which investigates violent black-on-black crime - said: “Duane's family deserve some justice and to be able to move on with their lives and see someone convicted of his murder.
“We would urge anyone with information, especially about Robert Bernard’s current whereabouts, to contact us as soon as possible.”
Bernard is described as black, 6ft 4ins tall and of heavy build.
Anyone who can assist should call the Trident incident room on 020 8733 4212 (44 20 8733 4212 from outside the UK).
If you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 (44 800 555 111).
Information can also be emailed to: chetopa.appeal@met.police.uk
Duane’s sister Tiffaney Shaw, 35, said: “Duane was a young guy who enjoyed living life to the fullest. He was very strong-willed and always stood his ground in whatever he believed in.
“He would always encourage my three boys to stay in school and gain an education as he didn't want them to live the life he was living.
“I know that my brother's lifestyle is looked upon as being unacceptable to the outside world but when he was with his family he was a loving and caring young man with a heart of gold.
“Our lives have been torn apart since the day Duane was taken from us. Words cannot describe the emotions and hurt we feel as a family and have to live with each day.
“Every day we live in hope that we get justice for Duane. I believe that everybody in life has a purpose here so please, I ask anyone that has any information regarding Duane’s murder to come forward.
“Your courage to speak out will not only help us as a family but could prevent another family from having to go through what we are going through now.”
Duane’s mother Gwen Forde, 52, said: “I would like closure and the time to heal. I'm emotionally scarred for life.
“I have to live with what happened to my son day to day.
“How many more of our young men do we have to lose before we say that's enough? Next time it could be your son, your brother that they take from you.
“I would ask if anyone has any information that will lead to the capture of the persons responsible for my son's death please, I beg of you, come forward.”
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