In a tense confrontation that unfolded on Thursday afternoon in Rasville, Georgetown, 22-year-old Yohance Yarris, known locally as “Too Cute,” was shot by police during an attempted arrest. Yarris, who was wanted in connection with a series of armed robberies, is now fighting for his life at the Georgetown Public Hospital.
The incident occurred around 2:45 PM when police officers on mobile patrol duty spotted Yarris in a yard in Rasville. Upon noticing the police presence, Yarris attempted to flee, allegedly drawing a handgun from a bag he was carrying. In the ensuing chase, officers reported hearing what they believed to be gunfire coming from Yarris’s direction.
Responding to the perceived threat, one of the pursuing officers discharged his weapon, striking Yarris in the chest. Despite being wounded, Yarris managed to jump a fence before collapsing in the street. The shooting quickly drew a large crowd, creating a tense situation as onlookers became hostile towards the police.
Yarris was wanted by law enforcement for his alleged involvement in multiple crimes, including:
- A robbery under arms on Shane Stuart in South Ruimveldt on February 8, 2025
- Another armed robbery targeting Yong Jin in Lodge on January 25, 2025
- A third armed robbery involving Martin Pestano in West Coast Berbice on February 15, 2025
- A larceny from Adrian Ally on Mandela Avenue on February 19, 2025
The string of alleged offenses had made Yarris a priority target for local law enforcement, culminating in Thursday’s violent encounter.
As of Saturday, February 22, Yarris remains in critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he is under police guard. The severity of his injuries underscores the dangerous nature of the confrontation and raises questions about the use of force in apprehending suspects.
The incident has sparked discussions within the community about police tactics and the challenges of addressing violent crime. While some residents express relief at the capture of a suspected serial offender, others voice concerns about the escalation of violence during arrest attempts.
The Guyana Police Force has initiated an investigation into the shooting, which will likely scrutinize the officers’ actions and the events leading up to the discharge of firearms. As the community awaits further details, the case highlights the ongoing struggles with crime in Georgetown and the complex dynamics between law enforcement and suspects.
As Yarris fights for survival, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the high-stakes nature of police work and the potentially life-altering consequences of criminal activities. The outcome of this case may have significant implications for both local law enforcement strategies and community relations in Rasville and beyond.
