A brutal attack at a wake in Cudjoe Hill, St Catherine, early Wednesday morning has left one man dead and eight others injured.

The wake was being held in honour of the late grandmother of entertainer Christopher Martin when two gunmen struck.

The incident occurred around 12:40 a.m. as the gunmen walked down a dirt road towards the house where several people were gathered. Without warning, they opened fire indiscriminately, sending mourners scrambling for cover.

Among the victims was 34-year-old Oniel Spencer of Point Hill, who initially escaped the first round of gunfire. Unfortunately, as he attempted to leave his hiding spot and make his way home, he was ambushed and fatally shot. Spencer was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Eight other attendees were injured in the attack, with two reported to be in critical condition. One person was treated and released.

The St Catherine North Police are investigating the incident but have not yet determined a motive for the shooting. 

The community remains on edge as authorities work to apprehend those responsible for the killing.

- Ruddy Mathison

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