Education ministry concerned about shooting near Tacius Golding High School
Published:Saturday | January 11, 2025 | 3:00 PM
The education ministry has expressed deep concern about a shooting incident near Tacius Golding High School in St Catherine on Friday afternoon, which later spilled over onto the school's campus.
Three individuals, including two men, were shot in the vicinity sought refuge on the school's property.
The ministry said students were promptly gathered in a central location for debriefing and emotional support before an early dismissal was arranged.
It said a community care team will visit the school on Monday to provide counselling and psychosocial support for students and staff.
Education Minister Senator Dr Dana Dixon, expressed regret over the incident.
“We are deeply saddened by the incident. While we are grateful that none of our students or staff was physically injured, we fully recognise the emotional and psychological toll this incident can have on the school community,” she said.
Dixon urged citizens to practise peacebuilding and conflict management, adding, “Education does not happen only in schools as all of us form part of the learning community and must be deliberate in playing our part.”
According to preliminary police reports, around 1:20 p.m., five individuals were travelling in a Toyota Probox motor car. Upon reaching the vicinity of Tacius Golding High School, explosions were heard.
It is reported that two masked men emerged from nearby bushes and opened fire on the vehicle, hitting the occupants, who then jumped from the car.
The three injured persons were assisted by a passing motorist and later taken to Spanish Town Hospital, where they were admitted for treatment of gunshot injuries. One of them, who was shot in the head, is reported to be in critical condition.
The vehicle they were travelling in caught fire and was destroyed.
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