KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom) has initiated steps to assist the family of Matthew Small, a victim of a fatal police shooting in Ewarton, St Catherine, on December 13, 2024. This move follows a heartfelt plea published in the Jamaica Observer on November 8, 2025, titled “Please, I need to bury my grandson!” Small was one of two individuals who lost their lives during the incident, which occurred without eyewitnesses or the use of body-worn cameras by the involved police team. Since 2021, Indecom has been integrating social intervention referrals into its investigative processes through family liaison officers (FLOs). This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support to affected families, addressing both the emotional and financial challenges they face. Commissioner Hugh Faulkner highlighted the importance of this dual approach, stating that it not only ensures independent and factual resolution of cases but also offers essential support services such as counselling and social assistance. Most referrals are directed to the Victim Services Branch of the Ministry of Justice, the Office of the Children’s Advocate, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. Since the inception of this mechanism, Indecom’s FLOs have made over 160 referrals for counselling, 14 PATH referrals, 30 funeral grant referrals, and several others for education grants and compassionate housing. To date, Indecom has confirmed 11 successful funeral grant referrals, four PATH referrals, and a wheelchair donation from Food for the Poor. The commission underscores that while referrals do not guarantee assistance, they are a crucial first step in enhancing access to welfare support. Currently, two family liaison officers are coordinating this initiative across Indecom’s five regional teams.