A West Kingston community is grappling with profound grief and trauma following the brutal murder of three-year-old Jayce Pinnock during a violent home invasion this past weekend. The tragedy has been compounded by the subsequent death of Jayce’s father, who initially survived the shooting but succumbed to his injuries late Monday.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday on Nelson Street, where armed assailants approached the family residence—which also housed a small business—posing as customers before opening fire indiscriminately. When the shooting ceased, young Jayce, his father, and another sibling were discovered with gunshot wounds. Despite emergency medical response, Jayce was pronounced dead upon arrival at hospital, while his father and sibling were admitted in critical condition.
Ladania Cunningham, Jayce’s mother, expressed the devastating impact on her surviving children, who are experiencing severe psychological trauma following the loss of their brother. In the face of this tragedy, the Denham Town community has demonstrated remarkable solidarity, providing both emotional support and practical assistance to the grieving family.
Law enforcement authorities have identified the violence as part of a resurgence in gang activity within the community. Two persons of interest, known only by the aliases ‘Juby’ and ‘Romy,’ have been named in connection with the killing. Both are alleged members of the local Scream Corner gang.
Kingston Western Member of Parliament Desmond McKenzie accompanied Ms. Cunningham on a visit to Edward Seaga Infant School, where Jayce was a student. During the emotional visit, McKenzie vowed to pursue those responsible for the horrific crime. The Denham Town Police have similarly pledged relentless efforts in their pursuit of justice.
The school community has established memorials to honor Jayce’s memory, with classmates participating in touching tributes. Young students including Jirehfaith Gentles and Kyron Campbell placed flowers and roses on their slain classmate’s desk, creating spontaneous memorials to the three-year-old whose life was tragically cut short.