PNP expresses 'deep regret' after boy dies in Portmore motorcade

The People's National Party (PNP) has pledged to support "in any way possible", the family of a 15-year-old boy who died after falling from a bus in an election campaign motorcade in Southboro, Portmore, St Catherine on Sunday afternoon.

Head of the St Catherine South police division Senior Superintendent (SSP) Christopher Phillips said Lamar Grey, of a Gregory Park address in Portmore, fell and hit his head after hopping from one bus to another, a Toyota Hiace, about 5:30 p.m.

In a statement Sunday evening, the PNP said it "deeply regrets" the tragic incident, and that its General Secretary Dr Dayton Campbell has extended "heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family during this unimaginably difficult time".

"The PNP commits its unwavering support to the family affected by this terrible tragedy. We stand ready to assist in any way possible and offer our deepest sympathies during this challenging period," the statement said, urging persons to respect the family's privacy. 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they grapple with the profound loss of their loved one."

The opposition party also said it was emphasising to supporters, the importance of heightened vigilance and attention to safety during the campaign period.

Grey was rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

It's the second major incident involving political motorcades in the ongoing campaign for local government elections set for February 26. 

A St Thomas Jamaica Labour Party supporter lost one of her legs after a truck transporting fellow supporters crashed in  Roach Gully in the parish on February 8, nomination day. 

Just today, Prime Minister and JLP Andrew Holness urged party supporters to be careful on the road as campaign tour reached the eastern parish. 

He also said he would visit the injured woman. 

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com