KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) says it has launched an investigation into the fatal shooting of a civilian by a member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) yesterday, January 20, on Regent Street, Kingston at approximately 10:39 pm.

The deceased has been identified as Keith Gardner.

The injury of two others in the same incident is also being investigated, however the circumstances under which they received injuries are still unclear, INDECOM said in a statement.

According to INDECOM, a report from the police stated that a foot patrol team, comprising one Jamaica Constabulary Force member and eight JDF members, was in the Golden Heights Housing Scheme. The team separated into two groups and one of the groups engaged in a confrontation with the deceased who was reportedly armed.

He was shot and injured and was taken to the Kingston Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Two other civilians subsequently turned up at the hospital claiming they were injured in the incident.

The police also reported the recovery of a weapon during the incident.

INDECOM is now asking to anyone who may have witnessed or can provide any information about the incident to call its head office in Kingston at 968-8875, or call its mobile number at 878-0167.