As the police are following strong leads into the murder of veteran journalist and court reporter Barbara Gayle, the Jamaican media fraternity and the nation are reeling in shock at her brutal demise.
Gayle, renowned for court reporting skills, was found dead at her home in the gated community of Caymanas Country Club Estate in St Catherine on Tuesday morning.
According to Senior Superintendent Christopher Phillips, head of Area Five Headquarters, Gayle died from multiple stab wounds.
Her Mercedes Benz motor vehicle is missing, and is believed to have been stolen by her killer(s).
Phillips revealed that Gayle was last seen having a conversation with an unknown gentleman after 3pm on Monday. Residents who were accustomed to her morning routine became concerned when they didn’t see her on Tuesday and decided to check on her, only to discover her lifeless body.
“She was last seen sometime after 3 yesterday (Monday) having a conversation with an unknown gentleman. Sometime after 10 am (Tuesday), residents who are used to her routine coming out in the mornings to check on them and to call to them, they never saw that usual activity, and so some residents went to check on her, where the lifeless body was discovered,” Phillips explained.
Investigation underway
The police are following strong leads in their probe, with Phillips stating that they have the full support of all arms of the force.
“We are following strong leads at this time. We have the full support of all the arms of the force,” he said, adding “We are deeply saddened by this very horrible incident.”
Tributes pour in
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has described the act of violence as “deeply disturbing and tragic.” He has asked the relevant authorities to ensure justice is served swiftly in this matter.
Justice Minister Delroy Chuck, who paid tribute to Gayle, expressed shock and sadness at her killing.
“I have known Barbara for more than 40 years. She reported on many of the trial cases I did from the mid-80s into the 90s. In recent decades, she brought many problems, concerns, and weaknesses in the court system to my attention and urged their correction. Barbara was renowned for her impactful court reporting and dedication to Jamaican media. She has passed away leaving a legacy of excellence and integrity in journalism and court reporting. Barbara, you will be greatly missed,” he said.
The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) has also expressed shock and outrage at Gayle’s killing, calling for a thorough and swift investigation.
“The PAJ is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Barbara Gayle, a trailblazing journalist who dedicated her life to chronicling the complexities of Jamaica’s justice system,” the association said in a statement.
Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon, described the killing as “brutal and senseless”.
“This act of violence against a well-respected member of the media community is deeply disturbing and tragic,” she said.
The parliamentary Opposition has also condemned the killing, calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.
“The Opposition is shocked and saddened by the brutal murder of veteran journalist Barbara Gayle. Her passing represents not just a loss to her family and loved ones, but also to Jamaica’s media fraternity and the nation as a whole,” the Opposition said in a statement.
Gayle’s contributions to Jamaican journalism are immeasurable, with a career spanning over four decades. She was celebrated for her meticulous reporting on landmark cases and her commitment to justice and transparency.
The veteran journalist was honoured by the Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) in November for her extraordinary career with The Gleaner.
