Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed profound sorrow and grief following the tragic deaths of two young children in Moneague, St Ann — an incident that has left the parish, and indeed the nation, shaken to its core.
The children, one-year-old Ameir Saunders and three-year-old Shamair Henry, were reported missing on Tuesday evening, prompting a widespread search led by the Jamaica Constabulary Force and supported by members of the Jamaica Defence Force. Despite urgent efforts, the children were not found that night. The search resumed early Wednesday morning and ended in tragedy when their lifeless bodies were discovered.
According to police reports, one of the children was found at the back of the family’s home, while the other was discovered some distance away. Investigators have since cordoned off the area as they work to piece together what led to this heartbreaking loss. It has also been confirmed that the father of one of the children is currently hospitalized and receiving medical treatment, though authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding his condition or possible connection to the case.
In a statement issued from the Office of the Prime Minister, Dr Holness described the tragedy as “unimaginable” and extended his deepest condolences to the grieving family, especially the children’s mother, who now faces an ordeal no parent should ever have to endure.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the grieving mother, family members, and the wider community, who must now grapple with this unimaginable pain and loss,” Holness said. “No parent should ever have to endure such a tragedy, and as a country we mourn alongside them.”
The Prime Minister went on to stress the importance of vigilance in safeguarding Jamaica’s children, urging families, communities, and institutions to act swiftly whenever there are signs that a child may be at risk.
“As a society, we must be vigilant in safeguarding the well-being of children. Whenever there are signs that they may be at risk, it is important that action is taken to protect them,” he said.
Holness also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening protective systems for children and enhancing the responsiveness of state agencies in cases where young lives may be endangered.
“Protecting the most vulnerable among us is not only a duty of the State but also a responsibility of each and every citizen,” he emphasized.
The deaths of Ameir and Shamair have not only devastated their immediate relatives but have also sent waves of grief throughout Moneague and across Jamaica, with many expressing anguish and disbelief at the circumstances of their passing. Community members have gathered to comfort the family, offering prayers and support as investigations continue.
Closing his statement, the Prime Minister called for unity, compassion, and reflection during this period of national mourning.
“Today, Jamaica weeps. Let us come together in prayer for the two precious lives cut short and for the mother and relatives who must now face this unspeakable grief. May their souls rest in eternal peace.”
The tragic case remains under investigation, and law enforcement officials are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the deaths of Ameir Saunders and Shamair Henry serve as a painful reminder of the urgent need to protect Jamaica’s children and ensure that no life so young is lost in vain.