Police investigate viral gun salute at St. Catherine officer's nine-night

Police have opened an investigation in St. Catherine after a video circulated online showing what appears to be a gun salute during a nine-night for a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

The incident reportedly happened on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Uton, St. Catherine, where mourners had gathered for the nine-night of policeman Shanki Gordon. Gordon died in a motorcycle crash on June 2.

Footage from the gathering shows music playing as several shots are fired into the air. People in the crowd are seen dancing and laughing while the rounds are discharged.

Several members of the constabulary are now said to be under scrutiny in connection with the matter. A police constable identified in the video has reportedly been interdicted, and his firearm has been taken away while investigators continue their probe.

The case has drawn attention because the JCF had used its Instagram page on December 31, 2025, to warn the public against firing guns into the air during New Year celebrations. In that message, police told citizens that gun salutes were unlawful, unsafe and not an acceptable practice.

The warning also noted that bullets fired upward return with dangerous force. Police further reminded licensed firearm holders that taking part in a gun salute could be viewed as irresponsible conduct and could raise questions about whether they should continue to possess a firearm.

Under the new Prohibited Weapons Act, persons who carry out a gun salute may face up to 15 years in prison.

It remains unclear what disciplinary or criminal action, if any, will be taken against those allegedly involved in the St. Catherine incident.