ST JAMES, Jamaica–Two men have been charged in connection to a shooting incident in Coral Gardens, St James on Saturday, August 8.

They have been identified as 20-year-old Devantae Lawrence, of Dappa Lane, St James, and 23-year-old Demar Ricardo Atkinson, a construction worker of Top Edinburgh, Coral Gardens, St James.

Both have been charged with shooting with intent, using a firearm to commit a felony, possession of a prohibited weapon, and unauthorised possession of ammunition.

Reports from the St James police are that about 11:55 pm, the complainant was driving his motor vehicle when a Toyota Voxy stopped ahead of him and blocked his path. A man exited the Voxy and opened gunfire. The complainant, who is a licensed firearm holder, returned fire, and the gunman fled in the Voxy.

The complainant reportedly pursued the vehicle, which collided with a parked trailer and subsequently collided with the Voxy. One man fled the scene, while Lawrence was found beside the crashed vehicle with an injury.

Police later accosted Atkinson, who had fled the scene and was subsequently apprehended in the Ironshore area.
Lawrence was admitted to hospital under police guard.

A search of the Voxy reportedly revealed a black Glock .45 pistol with a magazine containing four live .45 rounds.

Lawrence and Atkinson were subsequently charged.

Their court dates are being finalised.