KINGSTON, Jamaica — A close relative of the bystander who was shot and injured during Sunday night’s shooting at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre has revealed that his condition is much more serious than initially reported.

The relative, who spoke to Observer Online on Monday, shared that the injured man, a United States citizen visiting Jamaica for carnival festivities, may be facing severe permanent injuries.

“It is very serious. He has to go overseas to conduct the surgery because he is a US citizen,” the relative said, adding that doctors are concerned the injuries could result in “serious or total permanent disablement”.

The family has been at the hospital since late Sunday night and is grappling with the potential long-term impact of the injuries. The victim had reportedly travelled to Jamaica specifically for carnival, a trip he makes annually.

“He was here just for the carnival. He came down precisely just for that and it’s something that he does on a yearly basis. So it is very disheartening that I mean, this has resulted in this and the impact that it can have on our nation and the tourist industry,” the relative added.

The bystander was among three people injured in the incident, which involved popular podcaster Jhaedee Richards, also known as “Jaii Frais”, who was hospitalised under police guard. A third victim, said to be part of an entertainer’s entourage, is undergoing surgery and remains in critical condition.

Police sources have confirmed that music producer and manager Jahvel “Jahvy Ambassador” Morrison is in custody as investigations continue. Reports indicate that the shooting followed an altercation involving Richards outside a restroom, during which multiple firearms were drawn.

No charges have been laid as yet, and investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

READ: UPDATE: Podcaster Jaii Frais among 3 shot at carnival party, producer Jahvy in custody