KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Daryl Vaz has expressed deep sadness following the death of 10-year-old Shamaire Sharpe in an incident involving a Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) bus on Wednesday.

In a news release, Vaz said he has been in direct contact with the JUTC to ensure that all support mechanisms are activated for the affected family and that a comprehensive investigation is underway. He extended heartfelt condolences to the child’s relatives, noting that the entire nation is mourning alongside them.

“On behalf of the ministry, I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We grieve with you. We stand with you. And we will ensure that every support necessary is provided during this difficult period,” the minister said.

Vaz also restated the Government’s commitment to road safety and the protection of commuters, especially children who rely on public transportation for school. He noted that JUTC buses and drivers are trained to meet the safety standards required in the public transport sector, and that the company’s operational and mechanical protocols are designed to safeguard passengers at all times. These systems, he assured, will undergo a full review as part of the ongoing investigation.

“I am truly heartbroken by this tragedy. No parent should ever have to face such pain, and no school community should ever have to grapple with the loss of their children in this way,” he added, extending sympathy to the student’s parents, relatives, teachers, and classmates.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to strengthening road safety policies, improving enforcement, and reducing traffic-related injuries and deaths across the island.

Vaz also urged the public to remain calm as police investigations continue, describing the incident as “deeply unfortunate” and again expressing solidarity with the grieving family and school community.