WESTERN BUREAU:
A MAN the police described as a prime suspect in the murder of Detective Inspector Rupert Gardener, who was gunned down just over two months ago, was shot and killed by the Montego Bay police yesterday.
The dead man, who the police said challenged them in a shoot-out, has been identified as Frank 'Prento' Riley, of no fixed address. A 9mm Browning pistol and a magazine with two spent shells were reportedly taken from his body.
According to reports, shortly after midday a police unit, which included Corporal Clive 'Karate Georgie' Lawrence, was on patrol in the troubled Rose Heights area of Montego Bay, when they accosted three men, including Riley.
The trio reportedly pulled guns and challenged the lawmen. In the ensuing gunbattle, Riley was shot and killed and the weapon recovered. The other two men escaped.
"We go out with the intention of apprehending these guys and most times they refuse to surrender," said Superintendent Denver Frater, the crime chief for the Police Area One. "We have a duty to protect the public so we can't allow them to continue to wreak havoc. I think the city is a lot safer tonight without him."
BACKGROUND
Detective Inspector Gardener, who was attached to the Montego Bay Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), was shot and killed shortly after 2:00 on the afternoon of Monday, June 10, while conducting business at a cambio at the Westgate Shopping Centre, Montego Bay, St. James.
Reports are that Inspector Gardener, who was standing at the cashier's counter, was surprised by one of two gunmen who shot him in his head and later stole his service revolver. The killer subsequently made his escape, firing several shots as he fled into the Westgate Hills area.
