19-y-o freed from Gun Court Hot

A man who reportedly shot at police personnel two years ago in Tredegar Park, St Catherine, was freed in the Gun Court last Wednesday.

He is Daniel McKenzie, 19-year-old, labourer, of Thompson Pen, St Catherine.

McKenzie was freed after a no-case submission by attorney-at-Law Earl Hamilton was upheld by the Crown.

The lawyer contended there were discrepancies in the Crown's case.

The Crown led evidence that on August 13, 2010, about 12:30 p.m., a police party responded to a call that persons were shot and killed in 'Monkey Town', Tredegar Park.

While on way to the scene, it is further alleged that a group of about 15 heavily armed men including the accused were seen.

McKenzie, who the police claim had a television set, fired shots at the party. The shots were returned and McKenzie was hit.

An injured McKenzie managed to escape, he was however, held in Kingston suffering from the wound.

The defence said his injuries were caused by a piece of steel on a construction site where he works.

He was subsequently charged with shooting with intent and illegal possession of firearm and ammunition.

The trial was presided over by Justice Courtney Daye.

McKenzie is on bail in connection with the deaths of Eldon Heron Sr, 64, and 45-year-old Eldon Heron Jr, Hopelin Dennis, 44,Nekeisha Anderson, 25,Orrette Miller,Gary Stewart, 24, 11-year-old Angel Anderson and Joey Anderson.

The eight were killed by men reportedly armed with high-powered weapons who invaded the Tredegar Park community.

- R.T.