Police in Anguilla are investigating a suspected homicide and arson after a man was found dead near a burning vehicle in the Bad Cox area early Wednesday.

If confirmed as a homicide, it would be the island’s first murder of 2026.

The Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) said officers responded to reports of a vehicle on fire sometime after six a.m. on Wednesday, January seven. Upon arrival, police discovered the body of a male in a nearby yard.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased was involved in a violent incident involving his motor vehicle prior to his death. The scene was secured and processed by forensic personnel, and the body was subsequently transported to a funeral home pending a post-mortem examination,” the police force said in a statement.

Police said a male suspect has been arrested and remains in custody while assisting with the ongoing investigation.

RAPF is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information that could assist investigators to contact the Criminal Investigation Department or the nearest police station. 

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