The fatal stabbing of two young brothers in Swamp, St Ann, has shocked the nation and prompted widespread condemnation from Prime Minister Andrew Holness, the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA), and other civic leaders. The main suspect, a 22-year-old man described as the father of one of the boys, remains in police custody.
The victims, three-year-old Shamair Henry and one-year-old Amair Saunders, were reportedly attacked with a pair of scissors on Tuesday evening while resting in their crib. According to police reports, both children died from multiple stab wounds.
Prime Minister Holness issued a statement describing the tragedy as a national moment of mourning. “Today, Jamaica weeps. Let us come together in prayer for the two precious lives cut short and for the mother and relatives who must now face this unspeakable grief,” he said. Holness further emphasized the need for vigilance in protecting children, adding that safeguarding the most vulnerable requires action from both the government and the public.
CPFSA Chief Executive Officer Laurette Adams-Thomas called the incident “beyond tragic” and “absolutely horrific.” She expressed condolences to the family and highlighted the importance of community responsibility in protecting children.
According to police reports, the boys’ mother, who lives in Dunrobin, Mandeville, was visiting her younger son, Amair, at his father’s home in Swamp, St Ann, on Tuesday night. She brought along her other child, Shamair. The suspect allegedly consumed ganja tea and began behaving strangely. Alarmed, the mother fled to the Moneague Police Station to report the situation.
When officers arrived, the children were missing. A search was launched, and the following morning their bodies were discovered in bushes near the house. The CPFSA later confirmed that the boys’ mother was also injured during the incident. She remains in custody but is not believed to be the focus of the investigation.
Quotes
Adams-Thomas stated:
“We shudder to think of what these innocent children may have endured in their final moments. Our hearts are also with the mother, who has suffered the devastating loss of her only two children.”
Prime Minister Holness also noted:
“The Government remains committed to strengthening our systems of support for families and ensuring that our agencies are responsive in situations where children may be endangered.”
Our Opinion
This tragedy highlights the urgent need for continued investment in child protection and community vigilance. While law enforcement will address the criminal investigation, broader social systems must work to identify early signs of risk and intervene before harm occurs. The memory of these two boys should serve as a call to action for all Jamaicans to prioritize child safety.
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