Crime Watch: 2 Dead in St. James Shootings, Police on Alert

St. James, Jamaica — The police in St. James are investigating two separate shooting incidents that left two men dead and one woman injured on Wednesday night. The violence, which occurred in the communities of Norwood and Canterbury, has residents on edge as the country continues to grapple with a recent uptick in gang-related activity.

According to reports from the St. James Police Division, around 8:30 p.m., gunmen opened fire on a group of men gathered at a bar in Norwood. One man, identified as 28-year-old Omar "Tuffy" Williams, a construction worker from the area, was killed on the spot. Another man, whose name has not yet been released, is in critical condition at the Cornwall Regional Hospital. A woman who was passing by was grazed by a bullet and treated for a minor injury.

Just an hour later, in Canterbury, police responded to reports of another shooting. There, they found the body of 34-year-old Kevin "Sticks" Brown, a taxi driver, lying in the middle of the road with multiple gunshot wounds. Witnesses say two men on a motorcycle sped away after the attack. No arrests have been made in either case.

Superintendent Carol Williams, the commanding officer for St. James, said in a press briefing this morning that the police are treating these incidents as targeted attacks. "We have reason to believe these shootings are linked to an ongoing feud between two factions in the area. We are increasing patrols and conducting cordon-and-search operations to bring those responsible to justice," she stated.

Residents are expressing frustration. Miss Patricia Gordon, a 52-year-old shopkeeper in Norwood, told HowJamaica.com: "Every night we hear gunshots, and we can't even send our children to the shop. The police come after, but the gunmen know the streets better than them. We need more than just patrols; we need real solutions."

Statistics from the Jamaica Constabulary Force show that St. James has recorded 42 murders so far this year, a five percent increase compared to the same period in 2025. The police have attributed much of the violence to the lottery scamming trade and territorial disputes.

Commissioner of Police, Dr. Kevin Blake, has urged communities to cooperate with law enforcement. "We cannot fight this alone. We need citizens to share information. Every tip can save a life," he said in a statement.

Practical Takeaway for Readers: If you see something, say something. Call Crime Stop at 311 or your local police station. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially after dark, and avoid areas known for gang activity. Your safety starts with you.