Adam Leroy King has been formally charged with the murder of Verneil Richardson.

The 33-year-old Hamilton Parish resident was not required to enter a plea in Magistrates' Court yesterday, in connection with the death of the 21-year-old early on Wednesday morning.

Mr Richardson was fatally stabbed after an altercation outside the Bailey's Bay Cricket Club.

In a brief court appearance King's lawyer, Charles Richardson, indicated that he will be making an application for bail.

Crown Counsel Cindy Clarke suggested the case be adjourned for one week.

Senior Magistrate Archibald Warner remanded the accused in custody, and set the case down for mention on July 5.

Just prior to the late afternoon court appearance police scheduled a press conference where a statement was issued on behalf of the victim's family.

Pastor Paul Richards, of Brighton Hill Church of Christ, extended the family's “heartfelt appreciation for the community's outpouring of love and support during this very difficult time”.

“Our beloved son has left this earth now, and the grieving process has begun,” said the statement. “But, in the midst of our pain, and sorrow, we are also concerned about those left behind to deal with this misfortune.

“We also take this opportunity to plea to any member of the public who may have witnessed the incident to make immediate contact with the police. We encourage you to help us, and the community, to understand what took place that evening.”

Pastor Richards also urged anyone with information to call the confidential and anonymous CrimeStoppers hotline at 800-8477.

The statement continued: “We believe that our son's life had a purpose, and that he did not die in vain. It is our sincere hope, and prayer, that some young person somewhere seeks, and finds, God and his grace, as a result of this tragedy.

“This is our prayer, not only for this situation, but for our entire Bermuda community.”