In a horrifying event in Panama, 77-year-old Kenneth Darlington, a retired American lawyer, shot and killed two environmental demonstrators obstructing a road on Tuesday. After a two-hour hearing, Darlington was remanded in custody after appearing in court in La Espiga following the incident. The US citizen of Panamanian descent had a history of unlawful gun possession and was said to have vowed “this ends here” before the fatal altercation.
Darlington opened fire on the teachers at a roadblock on the Pan-American Highway after a disagreement escalated there. The teachers had been protesting for three weeks over the Panamanian government’s agreement with a Canadian business for a copper mine. About 55 miles west of Panama City is where the incident was filmed and photographed.
Darlington, who was delayed in traffic due to the protests, reportedly said, “This ends today” before confronting the predominantly educator-based group. According to eyewitnesses, he got into an argument, wanting to deal with guys only. Darlington opened fire despite attempts by other guys present to defuse the situation.
After being shot, Abdiel Dáz and Iván Rodrguez collapsed to the floor. Díaz died at the spot, while Rodríguez, 62, succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at a local facility. After getting past the checkpoint, Darlington apparently went back to his vehicle and admitted to killing one person and injured another.
The incident has prompted widespread concern for the security of eco-activists and the broader consequences of foreign investments in politically volatile regions. Darlington has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and gun possession. However, it has been reported that his age may help him avoid jail time.
As protests against a mining deal negotiated with Canadian mining corporation First Quantum Minerals continued, the incident happened and caused major economic losses due to bottlenecks. Protesters are calling for the cancellation of the new contract that was signed on October 20. Despite the government’s assurances that the contract’s terms have been modified, public opinion remains divided. Darlington’s next court date is November 15 in Panama City.