KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) says it is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Barbara Gayle, a trailblazing journalist who dedicated her life to chronicling the complexities of Jamaica’s justice system.

Gayle was reportedly found dead at her Caymanas Country Club Estate home in Portmore, St Catherine on Tuesday morning. Her throat was slashed and her vehicle reportedly missing.

READ: Former Gleaner reporter Barbara Gayle found dead at home

In a statement shortly after the news, the PAJ said as the nation’s pre-eminent court reporter for The Jamaica Gleaner, Gayle’s unparalleled dedication to court reporting set a standard for beat reporting, earning her the trust and respect of judges, attorneys, prosecutors, and court staff.

“Throughout her illustrious career, Barbara demonstrated a commitment to justice and transparency, meticulously reporting on criminal trials, civil suits, appeals, and landmark decisions. Her integrity and professionalism earned her numerous awards, including the Press Association of Jamaica Community Service Award and the Journalist of the Year award,” the association said.

Just recently, Gayle was honoured for her years of dedicated service to journalism at the association’s annual veteran’s luncheon during National Journalism Week in late November.

“We are shocked and outraged by the confirmation that Barbara’s death was a result of murder. We urge the authorities to conduct a thorough and swift investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death, and to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the PAJ said.

Extending its deepest condolences to Gayle’s family, friends and colleagues, the PAJ said, “Her passing leaves a void in the journalism fraternity, and she will be deeply missed.”