Jamie Stephenson Charged in Lluidas Vale Shooting That Killed Clement Mills

A man accused in the shooting of a couple in Lluidas Vale, St. Catherine, has now been formally charged after the attack claimed the life of one victim and left his wife injured.

Police say 33-year-old Jamie Stephenson, also known as 'Tutu', from Mansfield Heights in Ocho Rios, is facing a murder charge in relation to the death of 62-year-old Clement Mills, who lived in Pusey district, Point Hill, St. Catherine. He has also been charged with wounding with intent, possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorised possession of ammunition, and using a firearm to commit a felony.

Stephenson was reportedly pointed out during an identification parade on Monday. After that process, investigators questioned him in the presence of his lawyer before laying the charges.

According to the police account, about 11 a.m. on Friday May 15, Mr. Mills and his wife were in a 2005 Toyota Light Ace van carrying water they had picked up in Lluidas Vale. Investigators say a gunman came out from bushes and fired at the vehicle.

Mr. Mills and his wife were hit, and the van later crashed on the roadway. They were helped to hospital, where Mr. Mills was declared dead and his wife was admitted for treatment.

Detectives attached to the Spanish Town Criminal Investigation Branch began enquiries, which led them to Stephenson roughly four hours after the shooting. He was taken into custody close to the scene, and police allege that an illegal firearm was recovered from him.

Investigators are also examining intelligence suggesting that a contract had been placed on Mr. Mills' life.