St. James Community Shocked by the Murder of Local Mason, Donovan Hayles
October 25, 2024
In a tragedy that has left the local community reeling, detectives from the St. James Police Division are delving into the details of a fatal shooting incident that claimed the life of Donovan Hayles, a 52-year-old construction worker, more familiarly known as ‘Pepper.’
The incident unfolded on a seemingly regular Thursday morning at around 9:30 AM. Hayles had arrived at a residence on Campbell’s Lane, located in the district of Mount Salem, to carry out repairs on a step. It was during these routine duties that he was accosted by a group of armed men who unleashed a barrage of gunfire upon him. The attack was ruthless and precise, with Hayles sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body, leaving him no chance of survival.
Donovan Hayles was a resident of Green Pond, St. James, and his untimely demise has cast a shadow of despair over the neighborhood he called home. Friends and residents describe him as a diligent worker and a familiar figure in the area.
Despite the swift response by local law enforcement, the motive behind this brutal attack remains a mystery. The community and police are stunned by the brazenness of the act, occurring in broad daylight and at a location frequented by local residents. Investigations are ongoing, with detectives urging anyone with information to come forward to help solve this troubling case.
The news of Hayles’ murder has sent shockwaves throughout St. James as residents grapple with the anxiety such crimes induce. In a region already challenged by violent crime rates, this incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing battle against senseless violence that authorities and communities must tackle head-on.
The Jamaica Observer was first to report on this distressing incident, capturing the somber mood surrounding the loss of a valued community member, and reflecting the urgency felt across St. James for justice to prevail in Donovan Hayles’ murder case.
