Mass murder in Cherry Tree Lane area of Clarendon 

According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, at approximately 9:00 p.m., a group of citizens from the Cherry Tree Lane Community in Clarendon were gathered playing Bingo when a group of men approached and opened fire, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals, including an eight-year-old boy and three females. Additionally, nine persons, including a one-year and eight-month-old baby, were shot and are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey, head of the Crime and Security Portfolio, stated that this act of violence borders on terrorism, with the intent to instill fear and intimidate the community.

The police have affirmed their commitment to ensuring that justice is served, and a high-level investigation into the murders has been initiated.

They include a seven-year-old boy, Aiden Bartley, who was a student at Four Paths Primary and Infant School.

The other deceased are:

•27-year-old Kavel Daley, a therapist;

• 50-year-old construction worker Lawrence Francis;

• 58-year-old butcher, Errol Stewart, also known as ‘Wagga’; 

•32-year-old Jermaine Boothe, also known as ‘Blacks’;

•Courtney Messam, also known as ‘Dummbie’; 

• A woman identified as Margaret.

The are all of Cherry Tree Lane addresses.

A one-year-old boy and a 70-year-old woman are among 10 others who sustained injuries and have been hospitalized.

According to official reports received by The Gleaner, a white Toyota Axio approached a bar where a party was being held. Three men exited the vehicle, armed with rifles and handguns, and proceeded to open fire on the patrons.

Following the cessation of the shooting, seven-year-old Aiden and three others were declared deceased at the scene, while two additional victims succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.

After receiving an initial briefing from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Prime Minister Holness advised the police to exhaust all possible measures to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice.

“I unequivocally condemn this abhorrent, brutal, and senseless attack that resulted in multiple fatalities in Clarendon. I extend my deepest condolences to all families affected by this tragedy.

“I have communicated with the Police High Command and instructed that maximum effort be employed to apprehend the perpetrators expeditiously,” he added. “The Jamaican State will not tolerate such barbarity inflicted upon our citizens. We will respond with resolute force.”