Four months ago, on a night meant for fun and celebration, tragedy struck. Seventeen-year-old Ethan Arruda lost his life after being stabbed at a Halloween party in Devonshire Bay, shortly after midnight on Sunday, October 27, 2024. Now, his family and law enforcement are making another heartfelt plea to the public: Speak up. Come forward. Help bring justice for Ethan.
At a press conference held earlier today, Inspector Derricka Burns, head of the Serious Crime Unit, stood before cameras with Ethan’s grieving parents by her side. She addressed the community with a somber but determined tone.
Good morning, everyone, and thank you for being here today. It has been four months since Ethan tragically passed away. At the last press conference, we appealed to those who were at the party to step forward. Since then, our investigating team has interviewed approximately 50 people, resulting in two arrests. We are grateful for those witnesses and their families who have come forward. However, we know that over 100 people attended that party. That means there are still many who have not spoken to us, and we strongly believe that some of them have crucial information that could bring this case to a close.
Inspector Burns, a mother herself, acknowledged the weight of this loss and the unimaginable pain Ethan’s parents are facing.
Some of you have children. I have a preteen daughter. We may never fully understand what this family is going through, but we do know that if this happened to any of our own children, we would want people to come forward and do the right thing. So today, I am urging you step up, be encouraged, and share what you know.
She emphasized the multiple ways individuals could share information, whether through direct contact with her, another trusted officer, the Crime Stoppers hotline, or the department’s online portal.
Then, with heavy hearts, Ethan’s parents stepped forward to speak.
We are appealing to the public for any information that could help bring justice for our son, his father said, his voice steady but filled with pain. We know there are people who saw something or know something. Even the smallest detail could make a world of difference.
Ethan’s mother wiped away silent tears as his father continued, describing the young man they had lost.
Ethan was a kind, loving, and shy boy who had been making incredible changes in his life. He had found a new purpose, a drive for self-improvement. He was focused, hopeful, and excited about the future. He had helped form a support group for kids his age kids who felt isolated, overwhelmed, or lost. Together, they created a space where they could talk, heal, and grow. Ethan wanted to make a difference, to be a light for others who felt unseen. And now, he’s gone.
The weight of their grief filled the room as Ethan’s father spoke the words that no parent should ever have to say.
Ethan will never go to college. He will never have a job. He will never get married. He will never have children. My wife and I will never have grandchildren from him. His brother will never have nephews or nieces. Ethan will remain 17 forever.
Their plea was clear: If you know something, come forward. If you were there that night, if you have photos, videos, or even the smallest piece of information share it. Silence only prolongs their pain.
As the press conference ended, the weight of the tragedy hung in the air. The Arruda family’s grief was undeniable, but so was their hope that justice for Ethan could still be found.
For those with information, tips can be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or by contacting Inspector Burns directly at 717-0921 or dburns@bps.bm
The truth is out there. It’s time to bring it to light.
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