KINGSTON, Jamaica — Floyd Green, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information has issued a statement expressing deep sadness at the tragic killing of 14-year-old Orane Johnson, of Lowe River, Trelawny.

Johnson was reportedly chopped in the head on Monday by an 11-year-old in his community.    

“I want to express my regrets and condolences to the family of the deceased. I am truly heart-broken by this incident and very concerned as to what could have led a child to commit such an act,” Green said.

He noted that a team of Officers from the Child Development Agency (CDA) and other social services visited the community and conducted assessments to determine the best support needed at this time for the affected families.

“Preliminary information received from the CDA state that there is a need for further community intervention and based on the tense atmosphere the team will be actively working with the police to reach out to the community in a big way,” the minister said.

He added that the 11-year-old child is in need of care and protection.

“Under the Child Care and Protection Act, Section 63, any child below the age of 12 years old cannot be charged for a criminal offence. This child will be brought before the Court and placed at one of our places of safety,” said Green.  

He further stated that the CDA has visited the child and a psychiatric evaluation is scheduled so that the most suitable intervention can be administered.

“We will also be assisting the family with the funeral expenses and will provide further support as needed” the minister stated.  

A team of counselors from the CDA is scheduled to conduct grief counselling to the affected families and children at the Albert Town High School where the deceased attended.