INDECOM probes fatal shooting of man in Portland

A probe has been launched by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) into the fatal shooting of a man by the Portland police this morning at Light house road in the parish.

The dead man has been identified as Phillip Grant, who is otherwise called ‘Belly Rat’.

Commanding officer in charge of the Portland Division, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rex Swearing, said that about 7:15 am the police received reports about a threat made on the life of a woman by the deceased, who residents claim has reportedly been a nuisance in the Boundbrook community.

According to Swearing the police responded, but upon arrival, Grant allegedly attacked one of the policemen by hitting him in the face with a piece of wood.

In an attempt to fend off his attacker, who refused to adhere to the warning calls from the other officers present, two shots were fired by the injured policeman which hit Grant.

Both men were rushed to the Port Antonio hospital where Grant was pronounced dead and the police officer treated for injuries to his face.

Investigators from INDECOM met with residents and later with the police to collect statements.

The Portland police are also carrying out their investigations