Jamaica: Prime Suspect In Clarendon Mass Shooting Killed

JAMAICA – Steve Smith, a prime suspect in Sunday’s mass murder on Cherry Tree Lane, Clarendon, was fatally shot by police on Wednesday during a targeted operation.

Smith, also known as “Thicka” or “Fly Brain,” was wanted for multiple contract killings and other serious crimes in Clarendon and other parishes.

Police reported Smith was involved in a confrontation with the fugitive apprehension and clarendon operational support teams in Osbourne Store, Clarendon. He was shot, taken to may pen hospital, and pronounced dead.

Smith’s death came hours after acting commissioner of police Fitz Bailey linked the Cherry Tree Lane massacre to a feud among overseas gangsters, which has triggered a series of violent incidents in Clarendon over the past three years.

National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang announced a state of emergency for the area, citing the high potential for reprisals.