Gunman killed after allegedly pointing weapon at police

A predawn police operation in St Catherine ended in deadly gunfire after a man allegedly confronted officers with a firearm and was shot dead.

The deceased has been identified as Shawn McDermott, otherwise called "Rammy," a 50-year-old labourer of Sterling Castle, Ewarton, St Catherine.

According to police reports, at about 5 a.m. on Friday, August 7, officers carried out a targeted operation at a premises in Whitehouse, Ewarton.

Investigators allege that as the police entered the premises, McDermott opened a back door and pointed an illegal firearm at the lawmen.

Police say the officers took evasive action and returned fire, hitting McDermott.

He was found suffering from gunshot wounds, and a firearm was reportedly recovered beside him.

McDermott was taken to the Linstead Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) was notified and attended the scene. Investigations into the fatal shooting are ongoing.

We want to hear from you! Email us at star@gleanerjm.com and follow @thejamaicastar on Instagram and on X @JamaicaStar and on Facebook: @TheJamaicaStar, or on Whatsapp @ 876-550-2506.