High-speed chase ends in fatal confrontation near Gutters

The incident unfolded around 8:00 pm last evening, when a team of officers from the St. Catherine division, patrolling in a marked police vehicle, received intelligence about a silver Toyota Probox, reportedly transporting armed men.

According to a police report, the officers spotted the vehicle in the High House area and signalled the driver to stop. Instead of complying, the driver accelerated, igniting a high-speed chase that raced towards Gutters. 

"The occupants of the motor car opened gunfire at the police, who, following use-of-force protocols, returned fire," the report stated.

Upon reaching Cherry Gardens Farm – between the communities of Grove and Gutters – the chase reached its violent conclusion when the fleeing Probox crashed into a metal railing. Four men immediately spilled out of the damaged vehicle, continuing their assault on the pursuing officers.

In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, two of the men were struck. Their accomplices, however, managed to flee the scene under the cover of darkness. The two injured men were rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. Their identities are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. However, Old Harbour News understands that one of the deceased is Jason Allen, a resident of Bois Content, said to be about 40 years old. 

Following a search of the area, law enforcement recovered one brown-handled revolver. The weapon, whose serial number and make have not yet been ascertained, was found containing two live rounds, indicating it had been actively used against the officers. Four spent casings were recovered at the scene as well. 

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has commenced its own investigation, a standard procedure in fatal shooting incidents.

The police have launched a manhunt for the two remaining suspects who escaped. The two deceased men are expected to be listed as having charges laid against them posthumously, including three counts of shooting with intent, possession of a prohibited weapon and ammunition, and two counts of fatal shooting.