ST MARY, Jamaica — An elderly farmer from the Gayle community in St Mary was allegedly chopped to death by a man who is said to be of unsound mind.

The deceased has been identified as 61-year-old Rollin Henry of Spring in the Gayle community.

According to police reports, around 12:00 am on Monday, Henry was at home with his family when they smelt smoke coming from a section of the house that is used as a washroom. Henry reportedly alerted his son, and both men, armed with machetes, went to investigate.

Upon investigating, they saw the alleged perpetrator, 48-year-old Wendell ‘Rum Cream’ Mills, setting a section of the washroom on fire. The men confronted him but were overpowered by Mills, who allegedly used one of the machetes to inflict chopped wounds to the older Henry’s head and feet. The younger Henry escaped unharmed. The police were called, and they apprehended Mills, and he was taken into custody.

A resident told the Jamaica Observer that he was relieved that Mills is in custody.

“Boy, I’m glad cause him a nuisance in the community. Just trouble him; give inna the place,” said the resident.

Mills is said to have attempted to burn down another resident’s house a few weeks ago, but his attempt failed when the homeowner and residents were alerted early. At the time of the incident, Mills is said to be receiving treatment for his medical condition.