Masked gunman attacks businessman in Old Harbour

The identity of the victim is being withheld for safety reasons. 

Reports from the Old Harbour police are that the incident occurred around 6:45 pm on October 14, along the Colbeck main road. According to information, victim had just arrived via taxi from Old Harbour and was at a shop with friends, where he had ordered a juice, when he was accosted.

A lone man, on foot and wearing a mask, approached the elderly man and pointed a firearm directly at him. In a desperate act of self-defence, the victim used his bag to block the assailant before turning to flee the scene.

The gunman, however, gave chase and fired two shots at the fleeing businessman, one of the bullets striking his right hand.

The police were summoned and the injured businessman was subsequently transported to the Spanish Town Hospital, where he was admitted and is being treated for his injury. His condition is reported as stable.

Detectives from the St. Catherine Scenes of Crime team was informed and processes are underway to gather forensic evidence from the scene.

While a motive for the attack has not been officially established, police sources indicate that their investigations will explore all angles. Sources have confirmed that the complainant, is known to the authorities as one of several individuals who have applied for passports on behalf of other persons, an area of interest that is expected to form a key part of the ongoing probe.

Investigations continue.