CLARENDON, Jamaica – The shooting of a man, after he allegedly attacked a businessman he accused of being a homosexual, has been upgraded to a homicide investigation following his death over the weekend.

The incident reportedly happened at Sheckles district in Four Paths, Clarendon last week. Dead is 30-year-old Leon Hall from Sandy Bay in the parish.

It was reported that around 12:45 am last Wednesday, Hall was at a party with a male friend, who reportedly went and hugged a businessman who was also a patron at the venue.

The police said the businessman, who is also a licensed firearm holder, kissed Hall’s friend. Hall immediately began arguing with the businessman, referring to and accusing him of being a homosexual.

It was further reported that Hall pulled a knife, went within striking distance of the businessman and advanced toward him in a threatening manner.

The businessman, the police said, then pulled his licensed firearm and discharged one round. The bullet hit Hall in the head, and he fell to the ground.

Police said a crowd converged upon the businessman, who fled and sought refuge at a relative’s home.

Hall was assisted to the May Pen Hospital, where he was admitted in serious condition. He was later transferred to the Kingston Public Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries while being treated.

Police have since seized the licensed firearm and upgraded the investigation from a shooting to a homicide.