‘Tutu’ charged in deadly van ambush that killed farmer

A 33-year-old St Ann man known as “Tutu” has been slapped with murder and gun charges following a deadly broad daylight shooting attack in St Catherine that left a 62-year-old farmer dead and his wife injured.

Charged is Jamie Stephenson of Mansfield Heights, Ocho Rios, St Ann.

He has been charged with murder, possession of a prohibited weapon, wounding with intent, unauthorised possession of ammunition, and using a firearm to commit a felony.

The deceased has been identified as 62-year-old farmer Clement Mills.

Reports are that about 11:00 a.m. on May 15, Mills and his wife were travelling in a 2005 Toyota Liteace van loaded with water collected in Lluidasvale.

Police said that upon reaching a section of roadway heading towards Point Hill, a man reportedly emerged from bushes and pulled a gun from his waistband before opening fire at the vehicle.

Mills and his wife were both shot during the attack, causing the van to crash along the roadway.

The couple was assisted by police to the Linstead Hospital where Mills was pronounced dead and his wife admitted for treatment.

Investigators from the Spanish Town Criminal Investigation Branch later launched a probe, which reportedly led to Stephenson’s arrest about four hours after the shooting. Police say an illegal firearm was allegedly seized from him at the time.

Stephenson was reportedly pointed out during an identification parade on May 25 and later charged following a question and answer session conducted in the presence of his attorney.

He is awaiting a court date.

We want to hear from you! Email us at star@gleanerjm.com and follow @thejamaicastar on Instagram and on X @JamaicaStar and on Facebook: @TheJamaicaStar, or on Whatsapp @ 876-550-2506.