The video of a young man opening a door for police officers with his hands visible, before he was later killed in what police say was a confrontation, ignited backlash at the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Amid those calling the fatal shooting unjust is the man’s mother, Lafay-Ann Wright.
Wright came across the last image of her 22-year-old son, Jamar Farquharson, alive on social media. She initially thought it was someone else because his face was not captured in the footage, but later recognised Farquharson at his home in Cherry Tree Lane, Clarendon. Farquharson lived in the area, which is known to have violence, for three years before he was killed.
Dozens of officers went to the residence on September 15 around 3 p.m., per the police report. Authorities said their account stated that officers went to search for a firearm, and while escorting him to his room, he allegedly reached for a gun hidden among his clothing. According to the police, two officers fired in response, killing him.
Assistant Commissioner Hamish Campbell confirmed this to be the account of the police, adding, “Mr Farquharson wasn’t handcuffed or restrained in any way.” Campbell said.
A 9mm pistol was reportedly recovered from the scene. The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has since confirmed that original CCTV footage is under review in an ongoing investigation.
For Wright, however, the story told by authorities clashes with the son she knew. “Mi can guarantee when him open the door, him say, ‘Good evening, officers,’ cause a suh him stay. A suh him grow,” she said firmly, describing Jamar as respectful and obedient.
According to his family, Farquharson was remembered as ambitious, friendly, and hard-working. He had completed sixth form at Vere Technical and Denbigh High before finding employment with the National Water Commission. On the side, he ran a catering business, helped with his family’s honey production, and took welding jobs to support himself.
“He did all kind of work … anything him catch, him do,” Wright said, her pride for her son clear even through grief. Days after his death, relatives and residents staged a protest in May Pen, demanding answers. Wright expressed that she is leaving the matter in the hands of the Lord, saying, “God will give me justice, because a fasting and prayer mi use. The God I serve knows everything.”