November 22, 2022 – The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) responded to and commenced an investigation into a Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) fatal shooting of 24-year old Terron Hewitt on November 21.  The incident occurred in the vicinity of a Kingston Central checkpoint on Laws Street.

INDECOM’s investigation involved the processing of the incident scene, witness canvassing and initial interviews of the concerned soldiers. These concerned officers will be required to provide a statement and or attend the office of the Commission to be interviewed pursuant to Section 21 of the Independent Commission of Investigations Act, 2010.

From the accounts provided by members of the JDF, a confrontation occurred between members of the public and a group of soldiers at a Kingston Central checkpoint. During that confrontation, one soldier discharged his weapon at Mr. Hewitt, who was then taken to the Kingston Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead. No members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) were present or involved in this incident.

No firearm was reported as recovered or in the possession of the deceased at the time of the incident.

INDECOM is aware of videos circulating on social media. The Commission urges all persons who witnessed this incident to assist in the investigative process by contacting the Commission’s Office with known information or by sending the photos and videos to INDECOM’s official WhatsApp at (876)553-5555.

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