THE fatal shooting of Major Bonnie Paul Williams on Thursday morning has rocked members of the medical fraternity and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), who expressed appreciation for his significant contribution to nation-building and the impact he had on the lives of many people.

Williams, who was a brigade medical officer at the Jamaica National Reserve and consultant radiologist at the University Hospital of the West Indies, was shot and killed by gunmen at Millsborough Crescent in St Andrew.

“Based on the information received, Major Williams was returning home when he observed a group of men attempting to steal a motor car. The group of men opened fire at his vehicle and subsequently robbed him of his licensed firearm,” a release from the JDF stated.

“Major Williams was found unresponsive at the scene of the crime. It is believed that he died of gunshot wounds he sustained as a result of the incident,” the release further said.

Brigade Commander at Jamaica National Reserve Ricardo Bildgen expressed sorrow at Williams’ tragic death.

“Major Williams epitomised selflessness in his service towards his fellow citizens. His death will be a matter of enormous sadness to those who knew him and those whose lives he has impacted,” said Bildgen.

Echoing similar sentiments, JDF Chief of Defence Staff Rear Admiral Antonette Wemyss Gorman said Williams lived as a nation-builder, serving his country with unwavering commitment and professionalism.

“He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow comrades-in-arms and medical professionals,” she said.

At the same time, president of the Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) Mindi Fitz-Henley told the Jamaica Observer that Williams will be missed for his personable demeanour and passion to serve.

“The JMDA condemns this senseless act of violence against our fellow colleague. Apart from being an excellent radiologist and a major in the JDF, Dr Williams above all else was a father and a husband. It is unconscionable that a doctor who has given so much to this country has had his bright future cut down in this way. We are all grieving this terrible loss,” she said.

“He was just a friendly and lovely person to everybody and it was really a huge loss, and many persons are struggling with the news. He really did touch a lot of people with his personality,” she added.

Williams’ death comes just days after the JDF lost a soldier in a motor vehicle crash.