Chef charged with murder

A chef has been charged with murder following an incident in Duhaney Park, Kingston 20, on February 21, 2024.

He has been identified as 27-year-old Akeem Copeland, of Scarlett Road, Spanish Town, St Catherine. He has been charged in the killing of 34-year-old Lishaun Swaby, otherwise called 'Flava', a higgler of a New Haven, Kingston 20 address.

Reports from the Duhaney Park police are that about 9:25 a.m., Swaby and his employee were closing his business place, when he was pounced upon by Copeland who was armed with a gun. Copeland opened fire hitting Swaby several times. A team of lawmen who were in the area heard the loud explosions and went to investigate.

On their arrival, Copeland was seen running away from the park with a firearm in his hand. Upon seeing the police, Copeland pointed the firearm in their direction and fired at them. The police took evasive action and discharged two rounds, however, the accused escaped as the pillion on an awaiting motorcycle. Copeland was apprehended during an operation on February 1 and was officially charged on Tuesday after he was positively identified on an identification parade.

In addition to murder, he has also been charged with murder, wounding with intent, assault at common law, possession of prohibited ammunition, using a firearm to commit a felony, conspiracy to murder, and conspiracy to wounding with intent. His court date is being finalised.