Ebonyvale, Spanish Town residents upset over fatal police shooting of community member

Residents of Ebonyvale in Spanish Town, St Catherine are expressing outrage following the fatal police shooting of Damion Martin, otherwise known as ‘Pinky', during an alleged confrontation at his home on Lignum Avenue on Thursday morning.

According to police reports, a joint operation was conducted around 9:00 a.m. based on intelligence.

Cops attempted to engage Martin but were reportedly met with gunfire.

In the ensuing firefight, Martin and a police corporal were shot.

Martin later succumbed to his injuries at hospital, while the policeman is recovering from non-life-threatening wounds.

Police say a firearm was recovered at the scene, and another man said to be associated with Martin was taken into custody for questioning.

However, several residents are disputing the police's version of events and are demanding answers.

"Well, I am a resident of Ebonyvale and one who would be considered an outstanding figure, serving in community life over the years, so I know Pinky well. I don't know him to be involved in any wrongdoing," a neighbour told The Gleaner.

"I was on the street making a delivery when we saw an entourage of police mobiles turn onto Lignum Avenue. Shortly after—maybe less than ten minutes—we heard continuous gunshots," said another neighbour who claimed to witness the incident.

He added that he had observed Martin speaking with a contractor shortly before the police arrived.

"The police were seen engaging Damion in a conversation outside the house before they marched him inside. It was at this point they say a shot was fired from inside. About 15 police went inside with him," he claimed.

The same neighbour noted, "At the time when the shot was fired from inside the house, the police were already inside."

Another longtime resident expressed disbelief:

"No, it can't be him. He has been living in this community all his life. We don't know him as a wrongdoer. However, we can't swear for everyone and what they could be guilty of in the cover of darkness."

Martin’s girlfriend, who was not at home during the incident, denied that he kept any firearm at the residence.

The community, still reeling from the news, is calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

- Ruddy Mathison

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