SANTA CRUZ, St Elizabeth — Councillor Christopher Williams (Jamaica Labour Party, Santa Cruz Division) says he is concerned about the blatant disregard for road safety in this south-central town following a motorcycle crash which claimed the lives of two men early Monday.

“I have noticed, especially at night, that some motorcyclists and truck drivers are of the view that Main Street, Santa Cruz, is a highway. I am urging the police to be on the lookout for them and give to them what the law prescribes,” he told the Jamaica Observer on Monday.

His comments came hours after police reported that about 1:30 am the two men died after the motorcycle on which they were travelling crashed into a wall on Main Street in Santa Cruz.

A police source named one of the men as Tio Rhoden. Up to mid-afternoon Monday the other man’s identity had not been released.

“It is very sad to wake up and hear of the tragic demise of the young men in Santa Cruz,” said Williams.

“I implore people travelling on motorcycles — driver and pillion — that it is very important to have on the necessary protective gear like your helmet. There have been a number of accidents involving motorcycles in St Elizabeth. It is widespread across Jamaica and in many instances there are fatalities. With the new Road Traffic Act taking effect in February, I am reminding all motorists to be very mindful and cautious so as to not be in breach,” said Williams.

— Kasey Williams