THE EDITOR, Sir:
I WISH to take this opportunity to express my condolences at the deaths of Mr. Ricardo Bogle and Special Constable Sergeant Wilford Gayle who lost their lives tragically on April 2. The events which led to the loss of both men, have left an indelible imprint upon my mind and heart.
One man had to die in order to avenge a fatal accident. While I understand that emotions know no logic and the loss of someone you love can lead you to desperate acts, I cannot understand how there can possibly be retribution for one life by the murder of another. There can be no excuse for the brutal murder of Special Cons Gayle.
Both the families of Cons Gayle and Mr. Bogle are grieving at this time, tied together by the tragedy of April 2. Though the loss is a tragedy, the greater loss is the lack of justice, compassion, the laws which were ignored, the basic principles of right and wrong which were trampled on. The tendency of our people to act before thinking is the main reason for riots and mobs in Jamaica. What is done in a moment of anger cannot be undone and the effects are far- reaching. Individuals not even remotely associated with the victims and their families will be affected.
Our bus drivers will commute in fear of an accident and the resulting circumstances; many will flee the scene of an
accident for fear of reprisal. We cannot keep taking the law into our own hands. No life has ever been re-born as a result of reprisal murder. The only way we can survive, individually and otherwise is by being better persons than those who perpetrate wrongdoing.
Let us awaken the good in us. Renew our faith in God and the law. What goes around comes around. Let justice prevail.
I am, etc.,
N.A. JONES
St. Catherine
