The policeman who was suspected of attempting a murder-suicide late last month has been formally charged with the homicide of D’Johnnay Graham. Graham, the 20-year-old girlfriend of 22-year-old Constable Patrick Walters, was found suffering from a gunshot wound at her residence in Richmond, St. Mary.
Walters also sustained a gunshot wound, which officers believe was self-inflicted, shortly after he reportedly shot Graham on June 25. Weeks later, the cop has been charged with murder and an additional charge related to the use of a firearm.
The troubling incident occurred at night, when Graham and Walters reportedly had a dispute at her home. The nature of their argument remains unknown. When police arrived at the scene, officers found both individuals wounded by gunfire. Graham was pronounced dead after being rushed to the hospital. Meanwhile, Walters was admitted and received medical assistance. He was later released under police custody.
Following a thorough investigation by detectives from the Port Maria Criminal Investigations Branch, a file was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions. On July 17, the DPP ruled that Walters be charged with the murder of Graham and firearm-related offences. He was formally charged in police custody soon after.
Earlier this month, more murders were committed in connection with the case. The killings unfolded at a candlelight vigil held on July 3 to honour Graham’s memory. The peaceful tribute ended in violence shortly after 10:30 p.m. when two relatives of Walters from St. Catherine were fatally shot while attending the event.
An unidentified assailant opened fire at 27-year-old Shaquille Harris, known as “Nick” or “Big Red,” and Tiffany Douse, known as “Nikki,” during the gathering in Essex, St. Mary. The motive behind the double murder is yet to be confirmed by the police. The investigation surrounding the shooting at the vigil remains active, and authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward.