Relatives dispute police account after Alexander Marsh fatally shot in Jones Town

Relatives of Alexander Marsh are challenging the police account of his fatal shooting during an operation in the Jones Town area yesterday, saying the man did not have a gun when officers confronted him.

Police investigators said officers were carrying out an operation in the community when they saw Marsh walking along a road. According to the police, his conduct caused concern and the team followed him into a yard.

The police said Marsh then aimed a firearm at the officers. They said the lawmen, believing their lives were in danger, fired at him. Marsh was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

His family has rejected that account. Relatives said Marsh made a living picking and selling ackees and was getting ready to start his day’s work when the police approached. One relative said officers blocked access to the yard during the operation, leaving family members unable to go inside.

Residents also alleged that officers removed Marsh from the scene quickly, preventing them from properly seeing what had taken place. The killing has prompted relatives and community members to call for answers and for an independent probe into the circumstances of his death.

When contacted, the police said there have been continuing conflicts in the area. They said the matter is being investigated by the Independent Commission of Investigations, along with the police Inspectorate of Professional Standards and Oversight Bureau.

The police also appealed to anyone with information about what happened to share it with investigators. They said 12 murders have been recorded in the area since January and 15 illegal firearms have been seized. Targeted police operations are expected to continue.

Marsh’s relatives are meanwhile urging the authorities to ensure justice is served.