Three Police Officers Injured in Mount Salem Shooting; Wanted Man Killed

Three members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force were injured during an early-morning police operation in Mount Salem, St James, that also left a 29-year-old wanted man dead.

The incident occurred shortly after 3 a.m. Wednesday along Crawford Street, where members of the Area One Fugitive Apprehension Team were conducting an operation.

Police identified the deceased as Romario "Jerry" Brown, 29, who authorities said was wanted in connection with several murders and shootings.

Officers Came Under Fire

According to police reports, officers came under gunfire while carrying out the operation and returned fire. Brown was subsequently found suffering from gunshot wounds and was transported to Cornwall Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A firearm was reportedly recovered from the scene.

Three Officers Injured

Two policemen and one policewoman were injured during the confrontation. One officer suffered gunshot wounds to his shoulder and both legs and remained hospitalized with injuries described as serious but not life-threatening. Another officer sustained a graze injury.

The policewoman narrowly escaped more serious injuries after a bullet reportedly struck a cellphone she was carrying.

Acting Commissioner Visits Scene

Acting Commissioner of Police Clifford Blake later visited the area and said the incident highlights the dangers police officers face while pursuing armed suspects.

Blake also issued a strong warning to individuals who may be considering confronting members of the security forces, saying police will continue pursuing those wanted for serious crimes and bringing them before the justice system.

Authorities said the officers involved were operating in difficult conditions, including darkness and narrow terrain, when the shooting occurred.

INDECOM Investigating

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) was notified and is investigating the fatal police shooting, while the Montego Bay Criminal Investigations Branch is also investigating the wider incident.

Mount Salem has been designated a Zone of Special Operations since 2017 as authorities continue efforts to reduce violent crime in the community.

All three injured officers survived the confrontation.

CanJam News will continue following the investigation and provide updates as additional information becomes available.