Kingston, Jamaica – A primary suspect in the recent mass shooting along Text Lane, Joshua Lawrence, also known by his alias ‘Southy’, was killed by police on Monday morning during an operation in the Elletson Road area. The incident marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the shooting that claimed the life of a young victim and injured several others.
Deadly Police Operation Unfolds
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the fatal shooting occurred around 5:00 AM on Maiden Street as part of an intelligence-led operation. Assistant Commissioner Michael Phipps, head of the Area Four Police, stated that Lawrence was confronted by officers and fatally shot after allegedly engaging them. This development is a major step in the police’s efforts to bring closure to the violent incident that has shaken the community.
The Text Lane Mass Shooting
The Text Lane mass shooting, which took place on the evening of October 7th, saw assailants open fire on a group of people gathered at a premises near Charles Street. Six individuals, including children, sustained gunshot wounds. Tragically, 17-year-old Jabore Campbell, who was autistic, succumbed to his injuries in hospital on Saturday, October 11th, becoming the sole fatality from the attack. Two nine-year-old boys were among those injured and required hospitalization, with three victims having been treated and released. The nature of the attack, a drive-by shooting, has heightened concerns about gang-related violence in the capital.
Lawrence’s Alleged Criminal Network
According to police reports, Joshua Lawrence was considered a high-ranking member and a principal shooter for the Wellys Kelly gang, an organization believed to operate within East Kingston. Beyond his alleged involvement in the Text Lane shooting, Lawrence was reportedly wanted by the Kingston Eastern police for several other serious crimes. Most notably, he was a suspect in the murder of Crown witness Lisa Harris, who was killed on Bray Street in July 2025, a case that severely impacts the judicial process. His alleged deep ties to gang activities underscore the complex criminal landscape in the region.
Police Pursuit of Remaining Suspects
Following Lawrence’s death, Assistant Commissioner Phipps emphasized that the police are actively pursuing other individuals believed to be involved in the Text Lane mass shooting. In a public statement, the police have issued a stern warning and a deadline for the remaining suspects to surrender. They are urged to report to the Kingston Central Criminal Investigations Branch (CIB) no later than 6:00 PM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. ACP Phipps assured the public that the Jamaica Constabulary Force remains committed to investigating and addressing serious crimes across the Area Four Police Division.
The swift action by the police in neutralizing a key suspect in this high-profile case signifies their determination to curb escalating violence. This latest news from Jamaica highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized crime. The surrender deadline serves as a critical juncture in the ongoing investigation, with the police promising to continue their pursuit until all involved parties are brought to justice.