Policeman and family shot by gunmen; spouse killed

A policeman and his son were left battling for life in hospital, while the cop's spouse died after they were all shot in a late evening gun attack on Saturday in St. James.

According to preliminary reports the incident unfolded sometime after 9 o’clock.

Investigators are searching for a man, believed to be a suspect in the attack, along with a female resident from rural Jamaica who is considered a Person of Interest.

It's reported that the Constable and his family drove to Reading to collect the keys to a vehicle they had rented to an individual, and that a man drove up  and Ms Stephenson exited her vehicle and went to collect the keys from him.

But on her return to her vehicle, gunmen in the car opened fire on the family. Ms Stephenson died at the scene.

Her five year old son and Constable Morgan were rushed to hospital in critical condition and have undergone surgery. 

The police recovered 14 spent 9mm casings and a bullet fragment at the scene.

Condemned

Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang and Opposition Spokesman on National Security Peter Bunting have condemned the attack on the policeman and his family. 

Dr Chang expressed  "deepest condolence" and urged the nation to support the family in prayers.

The Minister highlighted the dangers faced by security personnel in their efforts to keep Jamaicans safe.

According to Dr Chang, the latest attack has not shaken the resolve of the security forces and the Government in their efforts sustain the reduction in violent crimes, including murder.

He said the Jamaica Constabulary Force has the full backing of the Government in lawfully pursuing the thugs who attacked the policeman and his family and paving the way for them to be brought to swift justice.

Senator Peter Bunting, in his response, called  it a "cold-blooded assault on a young family" and expressed prayers for the recovery of the policeman and his son.

He also condemned the circulation of graphic images and videos of the victims, calling it "deeply dehumanising" and re-traumatising" for those who are grieving.

Mr Bunting reiterated the Opposition's call for urgent and effective action to address violent crime and protect law enforcement personnel.