4-y-o dies after being shot during fatal firefight between gunmen and police in Granville, St James

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reporting that a four-year-old child has died after being shot during a deadly firefight between gunmen and the police in the Brown’s Lane area of Granville, St James early on New Year’s Day.

The JCF said police went to the area in response to illegal gun salutes being used to celebrate the new year.

The police reported that two gunmen were fatally shot during the exchange and that a high-powered rifle was seized.

They also said a 68-year-old woman was injured in the incident and taken to hospital for treatment.

In a media release today, the JCF explained that the shooting took place shortly after midnight on Thursday, January 1, 2026, as members of the security forces acted on intelligence and reports of illegal gun salutes, despite repeated public warnings against the practice.

It said members of a joint police–military team responded to reports of explosions and gunfire in the Brown’s Lane area of Granville, St James.

According to police, preliminary information indicates that a group of individuals had gathered in the community and were in possession of prohibited firearms, allegedly with the intention of conducting illegal gun salutes.

The police further reported that, upon arrival, the security forces came under gunfire from armed individuals in the area.

They said the team took evasive action and returned fire.

When the situation was brought under control, two men were found with what appeared to be gunshot wounds and were later pronounced dead on arrival at hospital, police said.

During the incident, a four-year-old child sustained gunshot injuries and later succumbed to those injuries while receiving medical treatment.

A 68-year-old woman was also injured and treated.

The JCF extended sincere condolences to the family of the child and expressed deep regret at the loss of the young life, as well as concern for all civilians affected.

The JCF said investigations are ongoing, including probes by the relevant oversight bodies, and that the circumstances surrounding the incident are being thoroughly examined.

The identities of the two deceased men are being verified, and intelligence-led enquiries are continuing.

The JCF repeated its warning against celebratory gun salutes, noting that the practice is illegal and places lives at risk.

It said a strong police presence is being maintained in the wider Granville area to preserve public order, reassure residents, and prevent further escalation.

The heightened presence comes amid reports that upset residents mounted a protest today over the fatal shooting, accusing the police of wrongdoing.

The JCF said it remains committed to protecting life, maintaining public safety, and bringing those responsible for criminal acts before the courts.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.