Police make breakthrough in senior citizen’s murder

Superintendent Sherrica Service of the St Andrew North Police Division said investigations into the tragic death of 78-year-old Barbara Archer are advancing at a steady pace.

"There has been an arrest but we don't want to say too much because the person has not been charged," Superintendent Service told THE STAR.

"We are to conduct a question-and-answer session with the individual. This person is reported to be her neighbour and one of the last persons known to see her alive."

The body of Archer, known affectionately as 'Miss Babs', was discovered at her residence in King Weston, St Andrew, on July 1. She was found face down with her throat slashed, dressed only in underwear and a merino.

She was last seen on the evening of June 29 when she stopped at a shop to get six eggs, a ginger biscuit, biscuits and bread - all of which were discovered with her body.

VARIOUS SPECULATIONS

The circumstances surrounding Archer's death have sparked various speculations within and even outside the community. Among the unconfirmed reports are that she was sexually assaulted and that the perpetrator attempted to stitch up the wound on Archer's throat after the fatal incident.

Recent media reports have also linked the crime to the confession of the son of a prominent dancehall artiste, although these reports remain unverified.

The police declined to comment on any of these reports.

"I don't deal with hearsay, let the police do their work," Archer's niece, Francine Weatherburn, told THE STAR.

"The police are conducting their investigation with forensic experts and have already conducted tests. A lot of rumours are circulating, but I am a professional person and will handle this situation with professionalism."

Francine said she was confident that justice will prevail.

"Stories are circulating, but ultimately, God will expose the person responsible," declared Weatherburn, who regarded Archer as a mother figure.