Family receives autopsy report for Old Harbour man who died in December

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Feb 27, 2025 12:19 PM | Featured, Top News, News
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It has been nearly three months since 25-year-old Tariq Melvin, a native of Old Harbour, died under mysterious circumstances in Clarendon.

The young man’s death, initially suspected to be a case of drowning, left his family, friends, and investigators searching for answers. Now, with the release of the autopsy report, some level of closure has finally been brought to those who have been grappling with the tragedy.

On December 9, 2024, Melvin was out with relatives at Streamz River in Clarendon when he mysteriously disappeared from sight. Despite frantic efforts to locate him, his body was later found floating in a deep section of the river. The discovery sent shockwaves through the community, sparking an outpouring of grief for the former Vere Technical High School student and Bodles FC football player.

The circumstances surrounding Melvin’s death were unusual, as relatives say he had a phobia for swimming, prompting a police investigation. However, the process of determining the cause of death was delayed due to a shortage of pathologists in Jamaica. With only approximately five pathologists serving the entire country, the wait for answers was agonizing for Melvin’s family and loved ones.

Recently, an autopsy was conducted, and Old Harbour News has been reliably informed that the report concluded Melvin died as a result of drowning. While the findings have provided some clarity, the pain of his untimely passing remains fresh for those who knew him.

With the autopsy report now in hand, the family has been able to move forward with funeral arrangements. A service is scheduled for March 22 at the Refuge Temple Apostolic Faith, followed by interment at Thetford Cemetery.

As the community prepares to bid farewell to Melvin, his death serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by families awaiting answers in cases of sudden and unexplained deaths. For now, his loved ones can take solace in the fact that they have some answers, even as they continue to mourn the loss of a young man whose life was cut tragically short.