Rasbert Turner, Sunday Gleaner Writer

Spanish Town:

The Linstead community has been plunged into mourning following the murder of a businessman yesterday morning. He is Roy Lee, 66-year-old proprietor of the Linstead Food Fair and Wholesale, located at 110 King Street in Linstead.

High-powered weapons

Reports are that about 8:30 a.m., Lee arrived at his business place. After opening, three men posing as customers and armed with high- powered weapons entered. They demanded that all persons lay on the ground. The businessman was then taken to a section of his business place where he was forced at gunpoint to open his safe. After robbing him of an undetermined sum of money, the gunmen then shot Lee in his face and upper body. They also robbed him of his licensed firearm.

He was taken to hospital where he later died. As the news of his death spread through the community, several persons converged on the business place and expressed grave concern about the criminality taking over the once-quiet community.

Residents said that the businessman was a very good person. His death has shaken up the entire community.

Christmas party

"He operates the two Western Union (outlets) in Linstead, and it is really sad to know that criminals chose to kill him," a worker tearfully remarked. Some said that they were looking forward to the Christmas party next week, but without Mr. Lee, it would never be the same.

Superintendent Harry Daley and detectives from the St. Catherine north division visited the scene. Superintendent Daley told The Sunday Gleaner the police had an interest in a man known as Ernie Fisher, who can help in their investigations at this time.

The killing of Lee brings to 27 the number of murders that have taken place in Linstead since the start of the year.