A BURGLARY at the home of Nicholas Tavernier has been linked to the fatal shooting of him and his wife yesterday.

About two weeks ago, the couple's rented apartment at Ramzan Drive, off Persad Lane, San Juan, was ransacked but nothing valuable was taken, police say.

Detectives say based on initial information, Tavernier, 41, was involved in an illegal deal and the men who ransacked his home were looking for the items. Police believe that a fallout over the illegal deal was the motive for the murders. Officers do not believe Henry was involved in any deal, but was killed as she was a witness. Investigators are also working on a second lead that the murders might be related to an argument Tavernier had with a neighbour.

Tavernier and his wife, Sharon Henry, 43, were shot multiple times around 5.30 a.m., while they were about to leave home for work. Both worked at security firms and were precepted officers-Henry a duty manager with Amalgamated and Tavernier with Safety Security Services.

At the time of the murders, both were dressed in uniform and had their company issued handguns with them. Police said the killers took Henry's gun but left Tavernier's.

Tavernier had just opened the front gate to the apartment's gallery when he was ambushed and shot.

Henry, who was behind Tavernier, ran back inside, followed by one of the gunmen, and was shot.

The couple's daughter and grandson, who were inside, were unhurt.

Both victims died on the way to the Port of Spain General Hospital.

Henry, who worked with Amalgamated for the past four months, was said to be an efficient employee.

Anyone with information about the identity of the killers can call 640-1738, 555 or 800-8477.

Yesterday, the apartment remained locked as the couple's daughter and grandchild left after the murders.

Their killings took the toll 354 for the year thus far.