Clarendon police probe June 1 killing of Hyacinth Johnson as Union District residents demand answers

Residents of Union District in Clarendon are still pressing for justice more than a month after 64-year-old Hyacinth Johnson was killed in the community. Clarendon police say the investigation remains open and have cautioned people against taking matters into their own hands.

Ms. Johnson, also known as Ms. June, was found at her home on June 1 with several stab wounds. Investigators also believe she was sexually assaulted. Neighbours say the once-quiet district has felt unsettled since the attack, with many describing a climate of fear.

At a recent town hall, locals voiced anger and called for the person responsible to be found. One resident said the crime was unlike anything the community had seen and left people shaken, adding that residents want the culprit caught. Another urged more street lighting and clearing of heavy bush along a stretch toward Grand Thum, saying the area needs to be cleaned up.

Earlier this week, residents held a protest over the killing, underscoring that violence will not be accepted. Leadership of the Clarendon Police Division has told the community that detectives are working to identify the attacker. As frustration mounts while the case remains unresolved, police continue to warn against vigilante justice.