Tragic Loss in St James: Police Constable Succumbs to Injuries Following Hit-and-Run Incident
October 20, 2024
ST JAMES, Jamaica — In a somber development for the community of St James, Jamaica, the police force is mourning the loss of one of its own. Constable Linroy Codner, who suffered critical injuries in a hit-and-run incident earlier this month, has succumbed to his injuries. He passed away on Sunday morning at the hospital.
The tragic incident occurred during a roadblock operation on the Granville main road on Friday, October 4. According to police reports, an officer on duty signalled a white Toyota Probox to halt. Initially appearing to comply, the vehicle abruptly accelerated, tragically striking Constable Codner and hurling him over a precipice approximately 50 to 70 feet deep.
Emergency services swiftly rescued Constable Codner from the precipice in an unconscious state. Despite being transported to the hospital by his fellow officers, where he received immediate medical attention, the constable’s condition remained serious. Having suffered multiple brain injuries, Codner was placed in intensive care before being transferred to Falmouth Hospital. Unfortunately, despite the diligent efforts of medical staff, he did not recover.
Following the hit-and-run, the St James police launched a search for the suspect. They identified Dillion Reid, known by the aliases “Bulby” and “CJ,” as the individual involved in the incident. Reid eventually surrendered to the police on October 5, accompanied by his attorney, after an intensive manhunt.
The constable’s death has sent ripples of grief and shock through the community and the nation at large, emphasizing the risks faced by law enforcement officers daily. Constable Codner’s colleagues remember him as a dedicated officer committed to serving his community, and his untimely passing highlights the dangers officers confront in the line of duty.
The broader community and law enforcement agencies are rallying around Constable Codner’s family, providing support and expressing condolences as they navigate this difficult time. The case against Reid is expected to proceed as the community and Codner’s colleagues seek justice for their fallen comrade.
The tragic loss of Constable Codner underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to protect those who serve in the line of duty, ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again.
[Source: Jamaica Observer]
