The St. Mary Police have launched a major manhunt for a 29-year-old man who escaped custody from a hospital after being shot during an alleged confrontation with lawmen.
The fugitive, identified as Herbie “Junior” Ballentine, reportedly fled the medical facility on Friday, October 3, after overpowering police officers and personnel from the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM).
According to police reports, around 11:50 p.m. on Thursday, October 2, a team of officers responded to noise complaints at a bar in the Frazerwood district when they heard what sounded like gunfire. The team went to investigate and was directed to a wake in another section of the community.
Upon arrival, they observed a man behaving suspiciously. When the officers attempted to approach him, he fled the scene. Investigations later identified the suspect as Ballentine.
A police operation was subsequently carried out at a house in the area, during which Ballentine allegedly attacked an officer with a knife. He was shot, subdued, and taken to hospital under police guard.
While receiving treatment, Ballentine was interviewed by INDECOM personnel. However, during the signing of his statement, officers reportedly removed his handcuffs, during which he overpowered the cops and INDECOM investigators and escaped.
A search of the hospital grounds and surrounding areas proved unsuccessful. Police are now urging Ballentine to turn himself in immediately.
Residents of Port Maria and Highgate are asked to be vigilant and report any sightings of unfamiliar persons to the police. Relatives and associates are reminded that harbouring an escapee is a criminal offence and are encouraged to assist in arranging his peaceful surrender by contacting the Port Maria Police Station at 876-994-9873.
Meanwhile, during the earlier police operation at Ballentine’s residence, one man was taken into custody, and three imitation firearms were seized. That investigation remains ongoing.
