Motorist killed in St James, 19-years-old arrested

The police managed to arrest the man who shot a motorist on the Salt Spring main road in St James in January.

19th of February 2024

St James teen charged for shooting at motorist in Salt Spring. (Credits: Jamaica Gleaner, Facebook)

Kingston, Jamaica: The police managed to arrest the man who shot a motorist on the Salt Spring main road in St James in January. He has been charged with shooting with intent, using a firearm and possession of a prohibited weapon.

It is to be noted that the male was identified as Philip Sterling of age 19-year-old. He is a resident of the community of Meggie Top in Salt Spring.

According to the statement of police, it has been said that the victim was riding his motorbike and in due course of time, Sterling allegedly came from behind a wall and began firing at the man.

The people nearby areas heard the terrifying sounds of the gun firing and they immediately arrived at the scene. Before they arrived at the location, Sterling already escaped the scene.

Noting this, they informed the police about the matter and the investigating officers responded to the incident and went to the crime scene. As they reached the scene, they discovered the body of the victim lying motionless on the ground.

Notably, the officers examined the body and they found multiple wounds due to gunshots. The body was sent to the hospital however, the deceased succumbed to his injuries.

The Jamaica police force launched an investigation and after some time, they finally managed to arrest Sterling. He has been charged with shooting with intent, possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of a firearm with intent to injure and using a firearm to commit a felony.

The Police issued a statement where they mention that the accused is supposed to appear in court soon where charges will be read to him however, the date is yet to be finalized.

Additionally, the news has been shared by various social media pages and many people took to their Facebook handles to express their frustration regarding the spike of crimes in their country.

While reacting to the news, a person named Grace Favour commented, “Finish you education inside the hell house after get a job cleaning up other’s mess since this is the life you choose.”

Another FB user, by the name of Anne Grant wrote, “So sad the earth gone to the wolves.”

Moreover, the citizens are definitely in a state of fear as such crimes are not new in the country. People are witnessing such stances of crime on every alternative day and they urged authorities to take serious action and implement strict laws to curb these situations.