British pub landlady Elaine McGowan, 65, was shot dead in a suspected targeted attack while visiting Trinidad and Tobago, leaving her family and community devastated as police continue their search for the gunman.
Details of the Shooting
Elaine McGowan, who previously ran The Castle Hotel in Hythe, Kent, was fatally shot outside her godfather's home in Trincity on July 5. According to police, Elaine was standing with her husband, Ian, at around 11am on De La Mare Avenue when a silver Nissan Tiida pulled up alongside them. A gunman reportedly got out of the vehicle and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Elaine was rushed to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Centre but was pronounced dead shortly after arriving.
Investigation and Community Reaction
Investigators in Trinidad and Tobago are continuing to hunt for the suspect, while Elaine's family have appealed for anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Saltwood, where Elaine, originally from the village, was remembered as a much-loved member of the local community.
Local resident Hemang Patel, who worked at The Castle Hotel under its previous owner and remained friends with Elaine after she took over the pub, said news of her death had left residents stunned. He told KentOnline: "We've always supported each other. She used our shop. We go there [the pub] all the time. She's always been a helpful and lovely lady. I couldn't believe what happened to her. It's a huge shame. To me, she's always been a brilliant person." He added: "A lot of people know her. It's been quite shocking this week. I can't believe it's happened to someone; you don't expect it." Hemang said he had last seen Elaine around two months before the shooting, when she told him she was travelling to Trinidad and Tobago because of a family matter.
Family Statement
The current owner of The Castle Hotel, Jakki Monroe, said the entire community had been left reeling by the news. She said: "It's horrific and everyone from The Castle would like to send their condolences to all of Elaine's family." Elaine's sister Joanne said she had travelled to Trinidad to carry out work as director of Cocal Retreat, her late father's farm in Manzanilla, where she had been continuing his work. She said: "Elaine, myself and my cousins grew up in South London in the 60s and our parents – all immigrants from Trinidad and Tobago – always believed in the values of family and community. We spent every weekend and every holiday together and I learned at an early age how important family is in good times and in bad. If anyone has any information concerning this crime, please contact the police in Trinidad who are conducting a thorough investigation." Joanne said Elaine is survived by her "beloved husband" Ian, along with "many, many family and friends" who are mourning her loss.
