A tragic early morning accident on the Hellshire main road in St Catherine, Jamaica, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left several others injured. The collision, which occurred shortly after 3:00 am on Saturday, took place approximately 100 meters south of the Greater Portmore entrance. The victims, one of whom is believed to be a teenager, have not yet been officially identified. The crash involved a white BMW and a grey Honda Fit Shuttle, with the BMW reportedly striking a utility pole, causing a power outage in the vicinity. Eyewitnesses reported that multiple people sustained injuries and were rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital for treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, which has left the community in shock.
标签: Jamaica
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Jamaican takes second place at 2025 CTO Regional Tourism Youth Congress
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) hosted its 21st Regional Tourism Youth Congress at the Hilton Barbados Resort, showcasing the talents of young tourism leaders from across the region. The event, part of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), brought together 15 students aged 14-17, each serving as junior ministers or commissioners of tourism in their respective countries. Participants presented innovative ideas on topics reshaping the industry, including sustainable tourism, digital transformation, and heritage experiences, while also tackling mystery questions designed to test their creativity and problem-solving skills. The competition highlighted the shift from the traditional ‘sea, sun, sand’ model to a new focus on ‘smart technology, sustainable practices, and social inclusion.’
Jolé St John, Tobago’s 16-year-old junior secretary of tourism, claimed first place with her compelling presentation, earning the title of regional junior minister of tourism until the 2026 Congress. Jamaica’s Caleader Lewison, also 16, secured second place and was appointed CTO’s junior secretary-general of tourism. Aylani Morris Seymour from the Cayman Islands took third place, while Isaiah Toney of St Vincent and the Grenadines received an honorary mention for his exceptional qualities beyond the standard scoring.
The congress was chaired by last year’s winner, Keyana Warner of Nevis, and judged by a panel of tourism leaders, including Rosetta West-Gerald, CEO of the Montserrat Tourism Authority; Paul Pennicook, interim CEO of Experience Turks and Caicos; and Charlene Drakes, manager of Stakeholder Engagements for Carnival Corporation & plc. In the lead-up to the competition, participants engaged in enrichment activities such as a master class on Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in tourism, a career readiness workshop on personal branding and leadership, and a field trip highlighting sustainable initiatives and Barbados’ cultural history.
Ian Gooding-Edghill, chairman of the CTO Council of Ministers and Commissioners and Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport, commended the delegates for their dedication and passion. Sharon Banfield-Bovell, CTO’s director of Resource Mobilisation and Development, emphasized the event’s significance as a launchpad for the next generation of tourism visionaries. The 2025 congress featured participants from 15 CTO member countries and territories, underscoring the region’s commitment to nurturing young talent in the tourism sector.
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Jadeja stars as India crush West Indies in first Test
In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, India crushed West Indies by an innings and 140 runs in the first Test match, wrapping up the game within three days at the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad. India declared their first innings at 448-5, securing a formidable lead of 286 runs. West Indies, struggling to find their footing, were bowled out for a mere 146 in their second innings, marking yet another demoralizing defeat for the once-dominant cricketing nation. Ravindra Jadeja emerged as the star of the match, delivering a stellar all-round performance. The left-handed all-rounder scored an unbeaten 104, his sixth Test century, and claimed 4-54 with his spin bowling, earning him the player of the match title. India’s captain, Shubman Gill, lauded the team’s flawless performance, highlighting three centuries and exceptional fielding. West Indies’ batting woes persisted, with only Alick Athanaze and Justin Greaves offering brief resistance in a 46-run partnership. India’s bowlers, including Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav, dismantled the West Indies lineup with precision. Siraj, in particular, continued his impressive form, taking 4-40 in the first innings and extending his wicket tally to 30 this year. West Indies, missing key players like Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph due to injuries, have struggled to regain their former glory. India, unbeaten at home against West Indies since 1994, are now strong favorites to secure a 2-0 series victory. The second Test is scheduled to begin on October 10 in New Delhi.
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US now Barbados’ number one source market
Barbados’ tourism sector has witnessed a significant boost, with stayover arrivals increasing by 5.43% between January and August 2025, totaling 503,000 visitors. For the first time, the United States has surpassed the United Kingdom as the island’s leading source market, marking a historic shift in Barbados’ tourism landscape. Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), highlighted this milestone during the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference at the Hilton Barbados Resort. ‘Arrivals from the United States stand at 179,753 visitors, making the US our number one source market this year,’ Franklin stated. ‘This is particularly significant given the UK’s long-standing dominance in Barbados’ tourism history.’ The Caribbean region also performed well, securing the third position with 70,984 visitors. Franklin attributed the US’s rise to BTMI’s strategic focus on expanding airlift capacity. ‘We doubled down on our airlift strategy, targeting the US market. In winter 2025, we secured over 60,000 additional seats from the US, which was pivotal in building capacity,’ she explained. Cruise arrivals also saw a 24% increase, with 599,826 passengers visiting the island between January and July. Franklin noted ongoing enhancements at the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, including modernization, improved passenger flow, and greener port operations. Additionally, significant investments in the accommodation sector are underway, with new hotels like the Blue Monkey Hotel and Beach Club, Hotel Indigo, and Beaches Barbados expected to open between 2026 and 2027.
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Chase says finances, infrastructure hurting West Indies cricket
AHMEDABAD, India — West Indies captain Roston Chase has openly addressed the financial and infrastructural challenges plaguing Caribbean cricket following a humiliating defeat to India in the first Test match. The West Indies suffered an innings and 140-run loss within three days in Ahmedabad, with their batting lineup collapsing twice, scoring just 162 and 146 runs. In contrast, India dominated with a declaration at 448-5, including three centuries. This defeat adds to a series of poor performances by the West Indies, a team that once reigned supreme in international cricket. Chase emphasized the dire financial situation in the Caribbean, stating, ‘There is obviously a struggle for finances, so whatever help we can get, I hope we do, to strengthen the infrastructure for cricket.’ He also pointed out the subpar training facilities and slow outfields in the region, which hinder player development and performance. Despite these challenges, Chase refused to use them as excuses for the team’s recent failures, including a 3-0 home series loss to Australia earlier this year and a shocking defeat to Nepal in a T20 series. The West Indies’ struggles in the five-day format continue, with batsmen failing to convert starts into substantial scores. Chase’s candid remarks shed light on the systemic issues that have contributed to the decline of Caribbean cricket.
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Slot struggles to solve Liverpool problems after third successive loss
Liverpool’s turbulent start to the Premier League season took another hit as they suffered their third straight defeat, falling 2-1 to Chelsea in a dramatic encounter at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Manager Arne Slot acknowledged the team’s ongoing challenges, describing the squad as a “work in progress” following a series of underwhelming performances. The match saw Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo open the scoring with a stunning long-range strike, only for Cody Gakpo to level the score in the second half. However, Estevao Willian sealed the win for Chelsea with a stoppage-time goal, leaving Liverpool reeling. This marks the first time since 2023 that Liverpool have endured three consecutive losses, a streak that began under former manager Jurgen Klopp. Slot, experiencing his first managerial run of three defeats in a row, attributed the team’s struggles to a combination of summer upheaval, including significant player acquisitions and the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota. Despite spending over £400 million on new talent, Liverpool’s marquee signings have yet to make a significant impact. Slot emphasized the need for patience and integration, stating, “We need to bring these players into our style.” The Reds’ next challenge will be a crucial clash against Manchester United after the international break, as they seek to regain their footing in the title race.
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Kudus fires Spurs into second with win at Leeds
In a thrilling Premier League clash at Elland Road, Mohammed Kudus’ decisive goal secured a 2-1 victory for Tottenham Hotspur, ending Leeds United’s impressive 24-game unbeaten home run. The match, played on Saturday, saw both teams deliver a high-octane performance filled with dramatic moments. Mathys Tel opened the scoring for Spurs with a deflected strike, only for Noah Okafor to equalize for Leeds before halftime. Kudus, however, emerged as the hero with a powerful shot that found the net just before the hour mark, sealing the win for Tottenham. The victory propelled Spurs to second place in the league, just one point behind leaders Liverpool. Under the guidance of manager Thomas Frank, Tottenham showcased a newfound defensive resilience, a stark contrast to their struggles last season. Leeds, despite their valiant efforts, were left to rue missed opportunities, including a crucial header by Joe Rodon that struck the post. The defeat leaves Leeds in 12th place, with eight points from their first seven games. Tottenham, on the other hand, continue to build momentum, having avoided dropping points after taking the lead in any match this season.
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Delivery driver charged after police seize 1,500 pounds of ganja in St Thomas
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Jamaican authorities have charged 33-year-old Fabian Watson with six violations of the Dangerous Drugs Act. The charges stem from the seizure of over 1,500 pounds of compressed ganja on Church Street in Morant Bay, St Thomas, on Wednesday night. The illicit haul, with an estimated street value of $4.7 million, was discovered during a joint operation by the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) and the St Thomas police. Watson, a delivery driver from Mount Zion, Rock River in Clarendon, was intercepted while driving a truck. A subsequent search revealed more than 150 parcels of compressed ganja and over $180,000 in cash. Watson now faces charges including possession, dealing, and trafficking of ganja, as well as conspiracy and possession of criminal property. Acting Senior Superintendent Patrae Rowe, director of FNID, emphasized the division’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and their financial operations. Rowe also highlighted the dangerous link between ganja trafficking and the influx of illegal firearms, which fuel violent crimes in Jamaica. Authorities are urging the public to report illegal activities through various hotlines, including FNID at 876-923-6184, Crime Stop at 311, and the police emergency number at 119.
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Bailey expected to remain sidelined until after international break – reports
Jamaican winger Leon Bailey, who sustained an injury shortly after joining Serie A club AS Roma in August, is set to remain out of action until after the upcoming international break, as reported by Italian media. This setback means the 28-year-old is likely to miss Jamaica’s pivotal World Cup qualifying matches against Curaçao on October 10 and Bermuda on October 14. Head coach Steve McClaren is expected to announce the squad for these games on Saturday morning. Jamaica currently leads Group B with six points, holding a two-point advantage over second-placed Curaçao. Trinidad and Tobago trail in third with one point, while Bermuda remains at the bottom with no points. Bailey, who joined Roma on a season-long loan from Aston Villa, has yet to make an impact due to his prolonged recovery from an undisclosed injury, leaving fans disappointed.
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‘Let’s check on each other’
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, has issued a heartfelt appeal to citizens to prioritize mental health by checking in with loved ones and utilizing available mental health resources. Speaking against the backdrop of rising suicide rates and increased calls to the national Suicide Prevention Helpline (888-NEW-LIFE), Dr. Tufton emphasized the collective responsibility of addressing mental health challenges. ‘Every Jamaican must pause, observe their surroundings, and offer support to those in need. When personal efforts fall short, professional help through public health services, faith-based organizations, or safe spaces should be sought,’ he stated. The helpline recorded 633 calls last month, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Dr. Tufton’s remarks follow his participation in the United Nations General Assembly’s High-level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Promotion. The Ministry of Health and Wellness is actively enhancing mental health services, including training non-psychiatric healthcare workers under the WHO’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme. Additionally, the School Mental Health Literacy Programme will resume in November, aiming to educate students on mental health awareness and coping strategies. Community-level initiatives, such as the Problem Management Plus providers, are also being expanded to support individuals facing emotional distress. With over 150 public mental health clinics islandwide, Jamaica continues to strengthen its mental health infrastructure. Other resources include the U-Matter Chatline for youth and a helpline for substance use-related mental health support.
