Five arrested in connection with Cherry Tree Lane massacre
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The police have apprehended at least five individuals in connection with the killing of eight people, including three women and a child, and the injuring of nine others, including a baby, on Cherry Tree Lane in Four Paths, Clarendon, on Sunday evening.
One of the individuals in question reportedly turned himself in to the police.
An illegal firearm has also been seized.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Fitz Bailey provided the update during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister on Wednesday.
Addressing the media, DCP Bailey said the shooting is linked to several other incidents.
“Our investigation has made significant progress, revealing connections to at least six previous violent incidents in Clarendon. These incidents include a quadruple murder in Havana Heights in 2021, a murder committed on April 21, 2024, and a subsequent shooting and arson on April 25 in West Park. The other incidents include a murder on April 29 on Cherry Tree Lane, a murder on May 11 along Foga Road, May Pen, as well as a murder that was committed on May 15 in York Town,” DCP Bailey said.
He further noted that the ongoing feud seemingly stems from a long-standing international dispute between former friends.
“Unfortunately, our findings indicate that these local violent issues have international roots and incorporate local players, some of whom are incarcerated. These individuals, who were once friends in Jamaica, had a falling out in the United States over illegally obtained gains, leading to each taking homicidal contracts to incite fear and terror,” DCP Bailey explained.
Investigations are ongoing.
