Jamaicans are lashing out at the police after surveillance footage from an operation has gone viral, showing Jamar Farquharson surrendering moments before he was killed in what officers described as a shootout. Farquharson was at home on Monday, September 15, when members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force arrived at his Cherry Tree Lane residence in Clarendon.
The video, now widely circulated, captures the 22-year-old mixologist carrying out ordinary tasks before the confrontation. At 2:34 p.m., cameras show him at home with a patty in hand, heading upstairs to his room. His housemate later confirmed he had just come from work. By 2:56 p.m., Farquharson reportedly noticed police at the gate and was captured rushing toward the door with only his phone in his hand.
The young man opens the door and steps outside as officers make their way into the home. According to CVM News, officers used force to enter multiple rooms when searching the property.
According to reports, doors were damaged during the operation. The internet was eventually disconnected, and several upstairs cameras were taken by officers, but not before a downstairs camera recorded police walking through the building, conversing, and checking behind furniture.
Police have maintained that around 3 p.m., while searching for a firearm, Farquharson pulled a gun, prompting them to open fire. They reported that a 9mm pistol was recovered at the scene.
However, family members and residents are pointing to the video as evidence that he had already surrendered. “It don’t take a rocket science to know that you have to have a search warrant. Whose name is on the search warrant?” his aunt, who raised him, demanded.
The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has since confirmed that it has the original footage in its possession, which is being analysed in the investigation as part of its probe. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in the community as residents call for accountability.
However, Farquharson’s housemate has vacated the property. The tenant was, according to CVM News, fearful of remaining there with police frequently visiting since the incident.
