Suspect held in murder of Barbara Gayle
Published:Thursday | December 19, 2024 | 12:09 AM
The main suspect in the murder of veteran court reporter Barbara Gayle was, last night, arrested by police after he was found hiding in bushes in Grange Lane, St Catherine.
Earlier in the day, Gayle’s stolen vehicle was found along Dyke Road in Portmore, St Catherine.
Gayle’s body was discovered inside her Caymanas Estate home in St Catherine by a neighbour around 10 a.m. on Tuesday.
She was last seen about 3:30 p.m. on Monday, sitting on her front porch conversing with a man, neighbours recalled.
The interaction between Gayle, 77, and the man, whose identity had not been made public up to press time, was captured on doorbell camera footage.
In the footage, he is seen calmly interacting with Gayle, who offers him a glass of water.
Gayle’s relatives told The Gleaner on Tuesday that they do not know the man in the video.
The Gleaner understands that the male suspect is reportedly from an area known as ‘Gulf’ in Gregory Park, Portmore, St Catherine.
The Major Investigation Division is leading the probe.
The police reported earlier yesterday that their investigation was making significant progress after Gayle’s 2018 grey Mercedes Benz GLA 180, which was stolen from her home, was found in a heavily vegetated area along the Dyke Road around 9 a.m.
Bloodstains were reportedly found inside the vehicle.
Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Christopher Phillips said the intruder’s method of entry was being thoroughly investigated.
Phillips described the murder as “horrible”, revealing that Gayle had multiple stab wounds to the right side of her neck and a wound to her forehead.
Since news of her killing, a wide cross section of society has reacted with shock and disbelief at the murder committed in a gated community.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the killing as senseless and said he had asked the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served swiftly in the matter.
In the latest condemnation Wednesday, the Jamaican Bar Association (JAMBAR) said the president and Council of JAMBAR deeply regretted Gayle’s death.
“Ms Gayle was well-known for her compelling court reporting and dedication to the Jamaican legal fraternity. Her reports on legal proceedings have earned her a Journalist of the Year award, and she was also the recipient of the Press Association of Jamaica Community Service Award and the Caribbean Association of Media Practitioners Regional Award. She is remembered fondly by all members of the legal community, including attorneys-at-law, judges, and court staff. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to her family, friends, and colleagues. May she rest in peace,” JAMBAR said.
Also paying tribute to Gayle yesterday, the Court Administration Division (CAD) said Gayle’s presence in courtrooms and her ability to report with clarity and depth earned her the admiration and respect of judges, attorneys, court staff, and fellow journalists.
The CAD said her legacy is one of excellence in journalism and steadfast dedication to the public’s right to know.
“Barbara Gayle was a trailblazer in court reporting, and her contributions have left an indelible mark on both journalism and the judiciary. Her dedication to truth and transparency will continue to inspire generations of journalists,” said Tricia Cameron-Anglin, director and CEO of the CAD.