KINGSTON, Jamaica–Junior Shadow Spokesperson on National Security Jouvaughnie Byfield has condemned Friday’s shooting incident on Lindsay Crescent in St Andrew which claimed the life of 12-year-old Kevaugn Fearon.

Byfield, in a statement on Saturday, said this senseless act of violence not only took an innocent life but also underscores the urgent need for more robust measures to protect our children from the scourge of crime and violence.

“Our children are the future of this nation, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being. We cannot allow them to grow up in an environment where their lives are constantly at risk. Together, we must take a stand against crime and violence and work towards creating a safer Jamaica for all,” he said.

He is now calling upon the Ministry of National Security to intensify its efforts to safeguard the well-being of our children.

“It is imperative that immediate and effective steps be taken to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. We demand a zero-tolerance approach towards violence against children, ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly and decisively”, said Byfield.

“We urge the government to implement comprehensive strategies that focus on both preventive and reactive measures. This includes increasing police presence in vulnerable areas, enhancing community policing initiatives, and providing support and resources to families and communities affected by violence,” he added.

Reports are that the child’s mother came to a stop at the intersection of Lindsay Crescent and Dunrobin Avenue, with Fearon and his brother aboard, when men on a motorcycle drove up and opened fire at the vehicle.

The 12-year-old and his mother reportedly suffered gunshot wounds while the other child was unharmed.

Fearon later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.