LINSTEAD, JAMAICA – In a dramatic escalation of efforts to apprehend those responsible for a brutal mass shooting that claimed the lives of five people, including a four-year-old child, the Jamaican government has announced a J$2 million reward for information leading to arrests and charges.
National Security and Peace Minister, Dr. Horace Chang, made the announcement on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, urging the public to come forward with any details that can help investigators bring the perpetrators to justice. The devastating incident occurred on Sunday night, October 5, 2025, around 8:45 PM, in the Commodore community of Linstead, St. Catherine.
A Night of Terror in Commodore
The attack, described by Prime Minister Andrew Holness as an “act of criminal terror,” saw armed assailants, some reportedly dressed in clothing resembling police uniforms, storm a residential yard. Witnesses reported that the men shouted “police!” before opening fire indiscriminately on a group of residents gathered at the premises, commonly referred to as ‘Big Yard’. The sudden and violent onslaught left nine individuals shot, with five succumbing to their injuries. Among the deceased were 4-year-old Shannon Gordon, 39-year-old Iysha Washington, 42-year-old Mario Sullivan, 19-year-old Jushane Edwards, and 22-year-old security guard Famous Amos. Four others sustained injuries and were hospitalized.
Government Vows Action, Offers Substantial Reward
Minister Chang, visiting the shaken community on Monday, expressed confidence that the police were developing strong leads. “The deliberate killing of a child and the slaughter of other innocent people will not go unanswered,” Dr. Chang stated, emphasizing the government’s determination to restore peace to Commodore. The Major Investigations Division (MID) is spearheading the probe into the shooting, which has sent shockwaves across Jamaica.
The J$2 million reward is intended to incentivize citizens to share crucial information. Those with knowledge of the incident are urged to contact the Linstead Police at 876-515-2689, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) Tip Line at 811, Police Emergency at 119, or Crime Stop at 311.
Prime Minister Holness, who also visited the affected families, pledged comprehensive government support, including counselling services and assistance with immediate and future needs. He underscored the brazen nature of the attack, noting its occurrence despite an active police presence in the area at the time.
Gang Conflict Suspected Amidst Broader Crime Challenges
Authorities, including Assistant Commissioner Christopher Phillips of the Area 5 Police, suspect that gang conflict may be the motive behind the horrific shooting. This incident marks a significant disruption in Linstead, which had reportedly seen a reduction in murders earlier in the year compared to previous periods. However, the broader context of crime in Jamaica remains a serious concern, with high homicide rates often fueled by the illegal trafficking of firearms, predominantly from the United States.
Community Reels, Support Mobilized
The community of Commodore remains in shock following the tragedy. Educational officials from Rosemount Primary and Infant School, where young Shannon Gordon was a student, have expressed profound devastation. In response to the community’s grief and trauma, professional counselling services have been deployed to support the affected families and residents.
The news serves as a stark reminder of Jamaica’s ongoing battle against violent crime. The government’s commitment, underscored by this significant reward and ministerial visits, aims to leverage public cooperation to dismantle criminal networks and ensure that perpetrators face justice, ultimately working towards a safer headline for all citizens of Jamaica.