KINGSTON, Jamaica — New investigative details have surfaced regarding the police-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Devar Hodges, a wanted criminal, in Kingston’s Mountain View area last Saturday morning.
According to official reports from Jamaican law enforcement, the fatal encounter occurred approximately at 5:30 a.m. when officers from the Kingston Eastern division executed an operation at a residential premises where Hodges was residing. The situation escalated when police witnessed a female individual fleeing from a room moments before their entry.
Upon entering the room, authorities confronted Hodges, who responded by allegedly directing an illegal firearm toward the officers. The law enforcement personnel reportedly implemented evasive maneuvers before discharging their service weapons, striking the suspect.
Emergency medical services transported the critically injured Hodges to Kingston Public Hospital, where attending physicians subsequently pronounced him deceased. Police officials confirmed the seizure of a black Jimenez Arms Inc pistol from the scene, containing a loaded magazine with seven live 9mm rounds.
Hodges, who operated under the street aliases ‘Skeddo’ and ‘Blackhead,’ originated from Browns Town in St. Ann parish. He had been actively sought by the St. Ann Police Division regarding serious charges of wounding with intent. His profile had recently been featured in the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s ‘Wanted Wednesdays’ public awareness campaign.
The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has initiated standard protocol procedures, deploying investigators to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting incident. The independent oversight body will conduct a comprehensive review to determine whether proper police protocols were observed during the operation.