The recent mass shooting in Linstead, Jamaica, has sent shockwaves through the nation, claiming the lives of five individuals, including a four-year-old girl, and leaving four others injured. The incident, which occurred late Sunday night, October 5, 2025, in the Commodore area of Linstead, has been described by Prime Minister Andrew Holness as an act of “criminal terrorism.”
Attack on a Family Yard
The violence erupted around 8:45 p.m. when a group of armed men, some reportedly dressed in police-style vests, stormed a family yard on Commodore main road. They opened fire indiscriminately on the occupants, resulting in a scene of chaos and devastation. Nine people in total were shot during the attack; five succumbed to their injuries, while four others sustained wounds and were taken to hospital. The youngest victim, four-year-old Shannon Gordon, was a student at Rosemount Primary and Infant School. The other deceased have been identified as 22-year-old Famous Amos, a security guard; 19-year-old Jushane Edwards; 39-year-old Iysha Washington, a vendor; and 42-year-old Mario Sullivan.
Police Investigation and Suspected Motive
Assistant Commissioner of Police Christopher Phillips, who heads Area 5, stated that the location was known to the police due to “long-standing issues and challenges” involving the family. While Linstead had been experiencing a relative calm this year with fewer murders compared to previous years, initial indicators suggest this shooting may be a continuation of gang conflict. ACP Phillips noted that the perpetrators posed as police officers, which he described as “very concerning” and not representative of police operations. A curfew was imposed on the Commodore, Banbury, and Trinity areas following the deadly attack, and the Major Investigations Division has taken over the probe. The police are conducting a manhunt for the perpetrators, with Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake urging community members not to harbor them.
Community Reaction and Official Response
The Linstead community has been left in shock and mourning, with relatives of the deceased expressing deep grief and anger. Prime Minister Holness, accompanied by Minister of National Security Dr. Horace Chang and Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake, toured the community on Monday, assuring residents that the Police High Command would track down those responsible. He pledged government assistance for the victims’ families and condemned the attack as an act of “criminal terrorism,” emphasizing the need for justice for crime victims. Opposition Spokesperson on National Security, Fitz Jackson, also condemned the shooting, calling it a tragic reminder of Jamaica’s ongoing struggle with violent crime and urging the police to intensify efforts to apprehend the culprits. The incident has renewed calls for urgent action to address violent crime and restore a sense of security across Jamaica.
Broader Context of Crime in Jamaica
This latest tragedy occurs against a backdrop of ongoing security challenges in Jamaica. While ACP Phillips noted that Linstead had seen a reduction in murders this year – with 13 recorded up to the time of the incident, compared to over 20 in the same period last year – this shooting highlights the persistent threat of organized crime and gang violence. The use of disguises, impersonating police officers, adds another layer of concern for investigators and the public. The national outcry over rising gun violence, as seen in this Linstead news, underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to curb the surge in violence and address its root causes. Counselling services are being offered to the residents of the affected communities.