AN Ex-police officer was on Thursday charged with discharging a loaded firearm with intent to commit murder, after he shot at a man during an argument at Wings and Things’ Bar, Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.

Lloyd Lyte 43, a father of seven, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the indictable charge. It is alleged that on November 27, at East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Lyte discharged a loaded firearm at Martin Atwell also known as John Kirby, with intent to commit murder.

The accused was represented by Attorney Satesh Kissoon, who requested that his client be released on bail since he is the sole breadwinner for his family.

The lawyer explained that Atwell pulled a gun on his client, who then attempted to disarm Atwell in self-defense. He added that Lyte is currently employed as a security guard with a mining company.

According to reports, on the day in question at about 02:00h, Atwell was standing outside the ‘Wings and Things’ bar, Mandela Avenue, Georgetown when a confrontation ensued between him and Lyte. The argument allegedly stemmed from Atwell’s refusal to remove some beer bottles he placed on the trunk of Lyte’s vehicle.

Lyte had reportedly left the confrontation and went into the bar but Atwell followed him and pulled out his gun and discharged a round at the man.
The ex-cop, in return pulled out his gun and shot at Atwell, hitting him three times about his body. Atwell was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and was subsequently discharged.

Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers made no objection to bail but requested that Lyte lodge his passport and report to the Ruimveldt Police Station weekly. Magistrate McLennan released the ex-cop on $150,000 bail and adjourned the case until January 9, for reports and fixtures.