WPC says she accidentally fired shot during Arima incident

A Diego Martin woman and her husband have both been granted bail after appearing in court on charges arising out of an incident in Arima during which a police officer accidentally discharged her firearm.

According to a Trinidad and Tobago Police Service media release, officers attached to the Arima Traffic Department were on patrol along Sorzano Street when they observed a heavily tinted vehicle parked in a no-parking zone.

Police said the female driver was informed of the traffic violation and issued a Fixed Penalty Notice for failing to comply with the permissible visible light transmittance requirements for vehicle windows.

Officers then instructed the driver to remove the vehicle from the area, however she allegedly refused. Police said the officers also requested her driving documents, but she did not comply.

According to the TTPS, the driver then started the vehicle and attempted to drive away, during which the vehicle came into contact with PC Phillips and WPC Hamid.

Police said WPC Hamid experienced a burning sensation in her right foot and, believing her life was in imminent danger, drew her firearm and pointed it downward.

The TTPS said the driver subsequently reversed the vehicle and, while WPC Hamid was attempting to re-holster the firearm, her finger inadvertently touched the trigger, discharging one round of ammunition.

Both officers later sought medical attention at the Arima Health Facility.

Following investigations, 38-year-old Katrianna Rezende appeared before Master Lisa Singh-Phillip in the Arima High Court on Wednesday, charged with Assaulting a Police Officer, Disorderly Behaviour, Resisting Arrest, Dangerous Driving and Careless Driving.

She pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The court granted Rezende bail in the sum of $80,000 with surety for the assault charge and a further $60,000 bail for the remaining offences.

The matter was adjourned to June 24, 2026.

As part of her bail conditions, Rezende must report to the Four Roads Police Station once per month between 6 am and 8 pm.

Her husband, 39-year-old Manuel Rezende, was also arrested in connection with the incident and charged with Disorderly Behaviour and Obscene Language.

He appeared before Magistrate Ali in the Arima Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and was granted $30,000 bail. His matter was adjourned to November 30, 2026.

Police said Katrianna Rezende was charged by W/Sgt Porter and WPC Hamid, while Manuel Rezende was charged by PC Phillips, all attached to the Arima Traffic Unit.

Investigations into the incident are continuing in accordance with Standing Order 41 of the Police Service Act, Section 16(2).