Shockwaves were sent throughout Walkerswood and the wider St. Ann community, as a popular businessman was shot several times and seriously wounded at his home on Wednesday, December 16.
The victim of the gun attack is Mark Perkins, operator of ‘Lyming at Walkerswood’, a popular restaurant and bar along the busy thoroughfare between Ocho Rios and Moneague.
Reports from the Constabulary Communications Unit (CCU) are that at about 1 p.m. last Wednesday, Perkins was at his home when he was shot four times by unknown assailants. The culprits robbed him of his licenced firearm.
He was taken to the St. Ann’s Bay Hospital where he was admitted in serious condition. He was airlifted by helicopter to hospital in Kingston last Thursday.
The St Ann police are investigating.
The developments have sent shock and dismay throughout the Walkerswood area and St. Ann as the ‘Lyming at Walkerswood’ eatery is a favourite of many residents of the parish and motorists passing through Walkerswood on route to Ocho Rios or going into Kingston. It is also a popular entertainment spot for persons from across the island.
STABILIZED
Deputy Superintendent in charge of crime in St Ann, Everton Grant confirmed to The Times last Saturday that Mr Perkins has been stabilized and is at a hospital in Kingston.
In addition, DSP Grant noted that the police officers are making steady progress in the matter as several statements have been collected from persons, including Mr Perkins. He further said that the police are searching for a person of interest in the matter, but his identity is being withheld as investigations are ongoing.
Reports to The Times said Perkins drove into his yard and was attacked by three men, one of whom had a gun. Police did not confirm reports that it was a hit on Mr Perkins who was shot five times.
