KINGSTON, Jamaica — A St Catherine man has been charged with murder and several other offences in connection with the shooting death of a businessman in Central Village, St Catherine, on Tuesday, August 18.

Charged is Devon McPherson, otherwise called “Jay” or “Rat Poison”, a forklift operator of New Harbour Village 3, Old Harbour, and Big Lane, Central Village, both in St Catherine.

McPherson has been charged with murder, possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorised possession of ammunition, using a firearm to commit a felony, and conspiracy to murder.

According to reports from the Central Village police, about 10:00 am on August 18, Smith was standing along a roadway in his community when McPherson and another man, both reportedly armed with handguns, approached him. It is alleged that the men opened gunfire at Smith, hitting him several times in the upper body. Smith reportedly ran from the area and sought refuge inside an unfinished apartment building, where he collapsed.

The police were summoned, and upon their arrival, Smith was assisted to the hospital. He was later pronounced dead.

During the investigation, McPherson was identified as a suspect, and a warrant was prepared for his arrest.

On Friday, August 28, McPherson turned himself in to the police. He was subsequently interviewed and charged.

His alleged accomplice remains at large and is being sought by the police.

A court date is being finalised for McPherson.