Sleepless in Sliema: The Unraveling of a US Press Gala Shooting Suspect

In the quiet, early hours of a Sliema morning, the peaceful hum of the Mediterranean was shattered by the echo of gunshots. The target? A high-profile US press gala at the five-star Hotel Phoenicia. The aftermath? A global media frenzy and a suspect on the loose, with Maltese authorities on high alert.

Who is the Suspect?

The man at the heart of the storm is identified as 45-year-old Joseph Xuereb, a Malta-born US citizen with a complex web of connections. Xuereb, a former military man turned security consultant, has been living between the US and Malta, according to sources close to him. His social media profiles paint a picture of a man with a love for adventure sports and a keen interest in politics.

Xuereb’s family, who still reside in the quiet town of Żurrieq, have been left shocked by the allegations. “He’s always been a quiet, respectful boy,” his mother told Hot Malta, her voice trembling. “I can’t believe he’d do something like this.”

What We Know About the Shooting

The gala, hosted by the US Embassy to celebrate press freedom, was in full swing when Xuereb allegedly opened fire, wounding three attendees before fleeing the scene. Eyewitnesses describe a chaotic scene, with guests diving for cover as panic spread through the grand ballroom.

US Ambassador G. Kathleen Hilliard issued a statement condemning the attack, stating, “An attack on journalists is an attack on democracy itself. We will not be intimidated, and we will continue to support a free and independent press.”

The Manhunt and Its Implications

Malta’s law enforcement, with the support of international agencies, has launched a massive manhunt for Xuereb. His last known location was a rented apartment in the Paceville area, but he has since vanished without a trace. Authorities have warned the public not to approach Xuereb, describing him as armed and dangerous.

The shooting has through Malta’s usually peaceful political scene. Opposition leader Bernard Grech called for an urgent parliamentary debate, stating, “This is not just an attack on the US, but an attack on Malta’s reputation as a safe and stable country.”

Meanwhile, the US Embassy has reassured Americans in Malta that their safety is a top priority. “We are working closely with Maltese authorities to ensure the safety of all Americans in Malta,” a spokesperson said.

As the search for Xuereb continues, one thing is clear: the tranquility of Sliema’s coastal promenade has been shattered, and the world is watching as Malta grapples with its most high-profile criminal case in recent memory.