MANCHESTER, Jamaica — A collective effort involving over 100 students and staff from Manchester High School has been mobilized to locate their missing schoolmate, Jayden Smith. The search, which commenced on Thursday morning, is concentrated around Wesley Road in Mandeville, following reports of a child resembling Jayden being sighted in the area on Wednesday evening. Eyewitnesses claim the child fled when approached by locals.
Observer Online reported from the scene, noting the presence of police officers and Manchester High students meticulously scouring the vicinity. Principal Jasford Gabriel provided an update, expressing cautious optimism: ‘We believe we are nearing a breakthrough. With numerous eyes on the ground, we are hopeful of finding him soon.’
Gabriel also conveyed the emotional toll on the school community, stating, ‘The entire school is deeply unsettled. When one member of our community is in distress, we all feel the impact.’ The search continues as authorities and volunteers remain steadfast in their efforts to locate Jayden.