The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) has expressed shock and outrage following news of the murder of veteran journalist Barbara Gayle, who was found dead at her St. Catherine home this morning.

“We are shocked and outraged by the confirmation that Barbara’s death was the result of murder. We urge the authorities to conduct a thorough and swift investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death and to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the PAJ said in a statement.

The PAJ described Gayle as a trailblazing journalist who dedicated her life to chronicling the complexities of Jamaica’s justice system.

“As the nation’s preeminent court reporter for The Gleaner, Barbara’s unparalleled dedication to the Court Beat set a standard for beat reporting, earning her the trust and respect of judges, attorneys, prosecutors, and court staff,” the statement read. “Throughout her illustrious career, Barbara demonstrated a commitment to justice and transparency, meticulously reporting on criminal trials, civil suits, appeals, and landmark decisions. Her integrity and professionalism earned her numerous awards, including the Press Association of Jamaica Community Service Award and the Journalist of the Year Award.”

The PAJ further expressed its deepest condolences to Barbara’s family, friends, and colleagues.

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck and the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) also expressed sadness upon learning of Gayle’s death.

“I am deeply disappointed and saddened to learn of the death of The Gleaner’s Crime and Court Reporter, Barbara Gayle. I have known Barbara for more than 40 years. She reported on many of the trial cases I handled from the mid-80s into the 90s. In recent decades, she brought many problems, concerns, and weaknesses in the court system to my attention and urged their correction. Barbara was renowned for her impactful court reporting and dedication to the Jamaican media. She has passed away, leaving a legacy of excellence and integrity in journalism and court reporting. Barbara will be greatly missed,” Chuck said.

Meanwhile, the PNP stated that this latest attack on a journalist is symptomatic of the larger state of insecurity in which we live.

“Journalists perform a vital function in our democracy, and violence against them strikes at the heart of freedom of the press and public trust. The PNP strongly condemns this act and calls on the relevant authorities to act swiftly and thoroughly in bringing those responsible to justice. No less than a speedy resolution will bring some measure of comfort to her family, her colleagues, and the wider media community,” the party said.

Additionally, Nekeisha Burchell, the PNP’s Spokesperson for Information and Public Communication, said: “Barbara Gayle embodied courage, excellence, and service in her journalism. Her tireless reporting gave voice to justice and transparency in our courts. Her death is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers many face amidst rising insecurity across our nation. The People’s National Party stands with Barbara’s family, colleagues, and all Jamaicans who are grieving today. We call for justice and reiterate our commitment to addressing the root causes of crime so that no family, no journalist, and no citizen should have to endure such a tragedy.”

READ: Veteran journalist Barbara Gayle murdered