St. Catherine, Jamaica — Police detectives assigned to the St. Catherine North division have taken a 45-year-old man into custody in connection with the suspected murder of his 80-year-old mother, whose body was discovered on Wednesday in an advanced state of decomposition. The woman has been identified as Jasmine “Sister” Grant, a retiree from the Cheesefield district.
Officers reportedly responded to a welfare check after neighbours raised alarm when they had not seen the elderly woman for several days. Upon entering the home, police found the house in disarray and the body of Grant partially decomposed — suggesting she may have been deceased for several days before discovery.
The suspect, her son, was taken into custody immediately after he was located in the area. Investigators have seized the residence for forensic examination, and officers from the Homicide and Major Crimes Branch are conducting interviews with neighbours and extended family members as they piece together a timeline.
Authorities have not yet released a motive for the crime. However, sources familiar with the case told reporters that tension had existed between the woman and her son in recent months, allegedly over financial disputes. The Police say it is too early to determine if the motive was personal, financial, or otherwise — and that they are awaiting autopsy results before filing murder charges.
Community members in Cheesefield expressed shock and concern. One resident, who asked not to be named, said: “We always saw Miss Grant around — a gentle woman, known to help the youth and the church. To hear this — the body wasted like that in her own house — it shocking us all.”
The discovery has reignited calls for better support for the elderly, especially those living alone or with distant relatives. Local advocacy groups are urging authorities to prioritize welfare-check systems and community support programs to protect vulnerable seniors.
The suspect is currently being held at the St. Catherine North lock-up. Police say formal charges will follow once the coroner’s report confirms cause and time of death. Meanwhile, crime-scene investigators continue their work inside the house.
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
