In a recent update from the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), it has been confirmed that most of the students injured in a bus accident on Tuesday along the Dublin Castle main road in Gordon Town, St Andrew, have been discharged following necessary medical treatment and observation. The incident, which involved students from St Martin De Porres and Louise Bennett-Coverley Primary Schools, occurred when the bus experienced mechanical issues, leading to it overturning after multiple attempts to restart it failed. Only one child remained hospitalized as of Tuesday night. Dr. Carl Bruce, Chief Medical Officer at UHWI, highlighted the hospital’s swift response, mobilizing pediatric, emergency, surgical, and ancillary care teams to provide comprehensive and compassionate care. The hospital also offered psychosocial support to the affected students and their families, emphasizing their commitment to the children’s emotional, mental, and physical recovery. UHWI continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates to relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Ministry of Education, as more information becomes available.
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MoBay moves toward creating designated running routes following rise in 5K events
Montego Bay, Jamaica, is witnessing a significant rise in 5K running events, prompting local authorities to take formal steps to accommodate this growing wellness trend. Mayor Richard Vernon of the St James Municipal Corporation revealed that officials are collaborating with police and event organizers to establish designated routes. These routes aim to minimize disruptions to traffic and local businesses, which currently face challenges due to the varying courses chosen by race organizers.
‘We are exploring the possibility of designating a specific area for 5K events,’ Vernon stated. ‘Our goal is to identify a location that allows residents to engage in these activities without hindering daily operations.’
In addition to addressing the logistical challenges posed by the surge in 5K events, Montego Bay is also expanding its green spaces as part of broader urban development plans. Mayor Vernon emphasized that these initiatives will enhance air quality and bolster public health efforts.
One of the standout events this year was the MBJ Charity Run, which attracted nearly 3,000 participants and raised approximately $30 million for educational grants. The event garnered support from over 100 companies, including Caribbean Solar Life and the Airports Authority of Jamaica. Applications for grants under the MBJ Charity Run’s expanded program remain open until September 30, 2025, and can be accessed at www.mbjairport.com.
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Police probing discovery of drugs on a private island in St Vincent and the Grenadines
Authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have launched a high-profile investigation on the upscale island of Mustique following the discovery of 35 packages of cocaine weighing 35 kilograms and an object suspected to be a grenade remnant. The findings, reported on Tuesday, have sent shockwaves through the exclusive enclave, renowned as a retreat for global elites, including Hollywood celebrities and British royalty. Details surrounding the incident remain scarce, as the private island maintains strict confidentiality. However, sources from the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) confirmed that explosive experts have been deployed to the scene to assess the situation. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. The police have yet to release an official statement regarding the matter.
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6.2-magnitude quake shakes west Venezuela
A significant earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale jolted western and northern Venezuela on Wednesday, including the capital city of Caracas. The tremor, which originated at a depth of 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles), had its epicenter approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) from Mene Grande, a small oil town in the sparsely populated Zulia state. The US Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the details, while the Colombian Geological Survey recorded the quake at a slightly lower magnitude of 6.1, classifying it as a ‘shallow depth’ event. The seismic activity was also felt in neighboring Colombia and the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire. Although Venezuela is not typically prone to strong earthquakes, the tremor caused widespread alarm in major cities such as Caracas and Maracaibo, a key petroleum hub. Residents swiftly evacuated buildings and gathered on the streets, but initial reports indicate no significant damage or injuries. The Venezuelan government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. Historically, Venezuela has experienced devastating earthquakes, including the 1997 Cariaco quake that claimed 73 lives and the 1967 Caracas tremor that resulted in nearly 300 fatalities and 2,000 injuries.
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Teenagers charged following motorcycle theft
In a recent incident in Westmoreland, Jamaica, two teenagers have been formally charged with simple larceny. The event unfolded on Saturday, September 13, in the Barracks Road area of Savanna-la-Mar. Authorities report that around 4:40 pm, the two individuals allegedly entered a man’s property and stole his 2016 Zamco motorcycle from his garage. The stolen vehicle is estimated to be worth approximately $260,000. Upon discovering the theft, the victim promptly reported the incident to the local police, prompting an immediate investigation. Law enforcement officials successfully apprehended the suspects during a targeted operation. The teenagers are now awaiting their court appearance, with the date currently being finalized. This case highlights ongoing concerns about youth involvement in criminal activities in the region.
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Gas prices down $2.60, diesel down $0.54
KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a welcome development for motorists, fuel prices across Jamaica are set to experience a notable decline starting Thursday, September 25. This adjustment follows the latest ex-refinery pricing data released by Petrojam, the nation’s leading oil refinery. The price of 90-octane gasoline will drop by $2.60, bringing it to $165.82 per litre, while 87-octane gasoline will also see a reduction of $2.60, settling at $158.81 per litre. Automotive diesel fuel will decrease by $0.54, priced at $167.47 per litre, and ultra-low sulphur diesel will see a $0.63 reduction, costing $173.73 per litre. Additionally, kerosene prices will fall by $0.54, making it available at $152.01 per litre. This price adjustment is expected to provide relief to consumers and businesses alike, easing the financial burden of transportation and energy costs.
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Rihanna welcomes baby girl
Global music icon and entrepreneur Rihanna has announced the birth of her third child, a baby girl named Rocki Irish Mayers. The Barbadian superstar shared the joyous news with her millions of followers via an Instagram post on Wednesday afternoon, revealing that her daughter was born on Saturday, September 13. This marks the first daughter for Rihanna and her partner, rapper A$AP Rocky, adding to their growing family. The couple previously welcomed their first son, RZA Athelston Mayers, in May 2022, followed by their second son, Riot Rose, in August 2023. The arrival of Rocki Irish Mayers completes their family of five, sparking widespread celebration among fans and well-wishers worldwide.
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FOREX: $161.04 to one US dollar
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The US dollar demonstrated a slight upward trend against the Jamaican dollar on Wednesday, September 24, closing at $161.04, marking an increase of 12 cents, as reported by the Bank of Jamaica’s daily exchange trading summary. This marginal rise reflects ongoing fluctuations in the foreign exchange market. In contrast, the Canadian dollar experienced a decline, ending the day at $115.52, down from its previous close of $117.50. Similarly, the British pound saw a minor dip, settling at $216.12 compared to $216.90 the day before. These shifts highlight the dynamic nature of global currency markets, influenced by a range of economic factors and international trade dynamics.
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Holness meets with new Canadian PM
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has emphasized the enduring partnership between Jamaica and Canada following a productive bilateral meeting with Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Mark Carney. The discussions, held recently, centered on enhancing collaboration in critical areas such as security, regional affairs, education, and training. Holness shared insights from the meeting via an Instagram post, highlighting the mutual commitment to fortifying the longstanding ties between the two nations. He underscored the shared history of friendship, respect, and close cooperation between Jamaica and Canada, expressing optimism about advancing joint objectives in sustainable development, economic prosperity, and regional stability. Mark Carney, who assumed office as Canada’s 24th Prime Minister earlier this year, leads the Liberal Party of Canada and has been instrumental in fostering international partnerships since his appointment.
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Bowl & Spoon opens new location at UWI, Mona
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus, has unveiled a groundbreaking dining experience with the launch of Bowl & Spoon, a new eatery dedicated to providing healthy, convenient, and enjoyable meal options for students and staff. This initiative aims to transform campus dining by addressing the persistent challenge of limited nutritious choices during hectic school days.
PJ Wright, Director of Bowl & Spoon, emphasized the restaurant’s mission to make healthy eating both accessible and enjoyable. ‘Our goal is to ensure that no one on campus has to compromise between convenience and health,’ Wright stated. He highlighted the common issue of students and staff skipping meals or resorting to fast food due to long queues or lack of variety, a problem Bowl & Spoon seeks to resolve.
Early feedback from the campus community has been overwhelmingly positive. Students have praised the meals for being quick, satisfying, and nourishing, while staff members have lauded the balance of convenience, freshness, and quality. The restaurant’s innovative approach has already made a significant impact on campus dining culture.
Bowl & Spoon’s launch at UWI Mona marks the first of three planned locations. The next outlet is set to open in New Kingston on Grenada Crescent, with a third location to follow shortly. The company has also announced two key initiatives to enhance the dining experience: a loyalty program to reward frequent diners with exclusive perks and an on-campus delivery service, a pioneering effort to bring meals directly to residences, classrooms, offices, and study areas.
This initiative underscores Bowl & Spoon’s commitment to improving the overall well-being of the campus community by prioritizing health, convenience, and quality in every meal.