Santa Cruz businessman, suspected robber killed behind St. Elizabeth premises

Police in St. Elizabeth are investigating after two men, including a well-known Santa Cruz businessman, were discovered dead behind a commercial property on Sunday evening.

The deceased have been identified as Melvin Blythe, 65, a licensed firearm holder and businessman also known as "Tuta", of Beadles Drive in Santa Cruz, and Romel Johnson, who was also called "Cow Man".

According to the police, Blythe had last been seen alive at his place of business on Saturday. By Sunday evening, relatives became worried when they could not reach him and checks were made at the premises.

Both men were later found at the rear of the property suffering from gunshot wounds. They were brought to hospital, where they were confirmed dead.

Investigators are examining what led to the shooting. Police sources said Johnson was known to law enforcement, and detectives are trying to establish whether he had been trying to rob Blythe before the deadly encounter.

Blythe's licensed firearm was found at the location and is being processed for forensic testing. The St. Elizabeth Criminal Investigations Branch remains in charge of the case.