Old Harbour record first murder of 2020

Screams of anguish echoed across the night’s sky following the death of 49-year-old Annmarie Stewart, who was gunned down inside her shop at Wellside Lane.

The incident occurred about 10 o’clock when an unmasked gunman walked into Stewart’s shop and purchased a cigarette before pulling his weapon and open fire.

Stewart died on the spot. Another man who was inside the shop with Stewart at the time manage to escape while being shot at.

The gunman then escaped in a waiting vehicle. 

The deadly ordeal left the community tense throughout the night while scene of crime detectives combed the area in search of any possible clues. However, the police are yet to establish a motive behind the killing.

Early this morning a para-military team was on patrol in the area, residents informed Old Harbour News.

Residents are in shock following the brutal slaying of their neighbor and friend – better known as Joan – who they described as a hardworking and loving woman.

Last year a record 35 murders were registered in Old Harbour, which falls under the St Catherine South Division. This was 10 more than the previous year, despite the imposition of a public state of emergency since September 2019.