KINGSTON – Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Dr Nigel Clarke, says he is “deeply saddened” by the tragic passing of Police Sergeant Marlon Smith, describing him as a “dedicated professional”.

Smith, who was assigned to Clarke as a close protection officer, died on Thursday in a fiery crash in Trelawny.

In a series of tweets on Friday, Clarke said he was still trying to process the tragedy, as Smith became a treasured member of his family overtime.

“Marlon was a dedicated professional and the finest gentleman. He was absolutely devoted to his job. He was knowledgeable, skillful, experienced and always situationally aware. He was therefore a reassuring presence who became a treasured member of my family,” Clarke tweeted.

He added: “Marlon exhibited kindness and generosity in abundance. He was thoughtful and gentle and possessed a great sense of humour. He was committed to his family and to his boys and he cherished and celebrated their achievements.”

Meanwhile, Clarke noted that Smith was “an excellent domino player who could make any partner look good”.

The minister ended his heartfelt remembrance by indicating that Smith will always remain in the hearts of his loved ones, including those he worked closely with.

He also expressed his sympathies to the sergeant’s family. 

“This is a terrible and intensely painful loss and my deepest sympathies go out to Marlon’s wife, his three sons, his grandson and to the close protection officer community and to the wider Jamaica Constabulary Force,” tweeted Clarke.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness also paid tribute to Smith, describing the late officer as “one of the kindest, most considerate, and most genuine persons anyone could have the pleasure of meeting.

“He had a ready smile and a heart of gold,” the prime minister said.

Smith, 49, was piloting a convoy with Clarke when the Suzuki Vitara motor car he was driving collided with two other vehicles along the Coopers Pen main road in Trelawny. 

His motor car was forced off the road and then burst into flames, the police said.