Trauma Counselling for Cherry Tree Lane Residents

Residents of Cherry Tree Lane in Clarendon are receiving trauma counselling in the wake of the horrific attack by gunmen on the community on Sunday night (August 11), which resulted in the deaths of eight persons.

Information Minister, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, who was part of a team led by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, that visited the area on Monday (August 12), told JIS News that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is very active in the community and the Chaplaincy Unit has been engaging with children and adults, including the loved ones of the deceased.

“There is counseling that is happening. The JCF team is out; we saw several of their chaplains, who are active here doing counselling and providing support,” she said.

Dr. Morris Dixon told JIS News that she was particularly concerned about the impact of the incident on the children, many of whom have indicated that they are afraid.

“One lady told me that she hid behind a car and someone who hid behind the car, also died. It is really hard and a lot of people are hurting,” she said, noting that it is important that the trauma teams maintain a presence in the area.

Dr. Morris said that no stones will be left unturned in apprehending those responsible for the deadly attack that also resulted in the injury of several persons.

She urged the community members to allow the police to carry out their investigations and provide any information that can assist their work.

“Let us not engage in reprisals; let the police do their work. Let them bring them (killers) to justice, let us get justice for the families,” she implored.

Mayor of May Pen, Councillor Joel Williams, also condemned the brutal attack on the community and urged persons to tell what they know to the police.