ST CATHERINE, Jamaica— A man suspected of being involved in the Cherry Tree Lane massacre which left eight people dead was shot and killed in an alleged confrontation with police on Thursday in Spanish Town, St Catherine.

The deceased has been identified as Kendrick Campbell, also known as Wormy.

It is reported that around 11:20am, police carried out an operation in Villa Palm Estate in Spanish Town in search of Campbell.

It is further reported that Campbell opened gunfire at the lawmen. The police reportedly returned fire resulting in Campbell being shot and injured. He was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

A Smith and Wesson 9mm pistol with a magazine containing five rounds of ammunition was also seized, police said.

The incident has been reported to the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM).

Christopher Phillips, acting assistant commissioner of police in charge of Area 5 said Campbell was a high priority target in connection with the August 11 tragedy which claimed the life of a seven-year-old boy.

READ: Eight killed, several injured in Clarendon gun attack

Phillips added that with Campbell’s death, there is a significant breakthrough in the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s efforts to dismantle organised crime in the country.

“His connections to some of the most dangerous criminal networks, including his association with the notorious Klansman Gang, have made him a major figure in the criminal landscape of St Catherine and surrounding parishes,” Phillips said.

“While this development underscores our commitment to public safety, it also highlights the broader ongoing challenge we face in dismantling gangs and bringing their members to justice. We are aware that Campbell was not acting alone and we are actively pursuing his accomplices,” the top cop added.

Campbell is the second person suspected of being involved in the Cherry Tree Lane shooting, who was shot and killed by police. Steve Smith, otherwise called ‘Thicka’ or ‘Fly Brain’ was also killed in a confrontation with police in Clarendon in August.

READ: Suspect in Cherry Tree Lane murders fatally shot by police

Assistant Commissioner Phillips advised criminals that when the police come for them, they should not try to engage members of the security forces.

“Let me remind them that our objective is to apprehend them and put them before the courts. So when we come for you, do not raise your weapons against the security forces. We urge you to comply and have your day in court,” Phillips warned.

He also urged the public to contact the police at their emergency number 119, Crime Stop at 311, the NIB tip line at 811 if they have information that may be useful to their investigation.