Update: JCF Names Person of Interest in Death of New York Woman in Jamaica

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is appealing to the public for assistance in locating Dane Watson, who has been listed as a person of interest in the investigation into the death of 35-year-old Melissa Samnath, a Jamaican national and United States citizen from New York.

Investigators reported that Samnath travelled to Jamaica to celebrate her birthday with Watson, whom police believe she married in December 2025.

Police said that on Wednesday, April 29, Watson transported Samnath to Cornwall Regional Hospital in St James. He reportedly helped remove her from a vehicle before leaving the hospital shortly afterwards.

Hospital staff later contacted authorities after Samnath was pronounced dead.

During the investigation, detectives searched a property in Norwood, St James, where items believed to be connected to the case were reportedly discovered.

A post-mortem examination carried out on May 6 determined that Samnath died from multiple blunt force injuries to the head.

The JCF is urging Watson to report immediately to the Freeport Police Station in St James or the nearest police station. Anyone with information concerning his whereabouts is being asked to contact the Freeport Police at 876-953-6191, Crime Stop at 311, or the police emergency number 119.

Relatives of Samnath in New York said they learned of her death through Watson’s mother.

A family member, who requested anonymity, alleged that Watson’s mother informed them she had received a call from him claiming he had killed Samnath and left her at the hospital in a wheelchair.

Family members also revealed that shortly after arriving in Jamaica, Samnath sent a disturbing WhatsApp message to relatives in the United States.

“I need you to call the cops. … Look at my location … It is a pink house,” the message reportedly stated.

Relatives said that was the final communication they received from her.