ST ANN, Jamaica — Police have arrested and charged a St Ann man in connection with the fatal attack of a British national in Retreat Heights earlier this year.

Charged with murder is 53-year-old Gary Ferguson, otherwise called “Peter,” of Great Pond, Ocho Rios.

The victim has been identified as 61-year-old Simon Blanchard, a retired engineer who lived in Retreat Heights, Falmouth, Trelawny.

According to the Falmouth police, the incident occurred around 5:10 am on June 26, when Blanchard reportedly heard a disturbance outside his home and went to investigate. While at his gate, he was confronted by Ferguson and three other men, who police say were attempting to break into a neighboring house. During the confrontation, Blanchard was attacked.

Police were called, and upon arrival discovered Blanchard unresponsive. He was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Following what investigators described as an “intense investigation,” forensic evidence, including fingerprints allegedly belonging to Ferguson, linked him to the scene. He was later taken into custody and charged.

A court date is currently being finalised.