Gareth Davis Sr, STAR Writer

A domestic dispute, yesterday, resulted in the stabbing death of 21-year-old labourer, Tafari 'Johnny' Charlton, of a land settlement address in Port Antonio, Portland. His common-law girlfriend is now in police custody following the incident.

The quiet and peaceful community was the scene of mourning and chaos after news broke about the incident. Reports from residents earlier suggested that the woman was severely beaten early yesterday morning and that cries for help were heard coming from the house occupied by the two, along with the woman's three-year-old daughter.

Constabulary Communication Network liaison officer for the parish, Debbie Douglas-Ellis, explained that the man was stabbed once in the left shoulder by the woman, during a struggle. She said that both parties were involved in a heated argument, which probably got out of hand, and a weapon was brought into play.

Argument ensued

Reports are that the deceased went into the house at about 7:00 Wednesday morning, left and came back, and an argument started shortly after. During a struggle both party's fell to the floor, and a knife was brought into play which was used to stab Charlton.

He was taken to Port Antonio General Hospital but he succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment. The woman, who has not yet been charged, is being interrogated by detectives from the Criminal Investigative Branch in Port Antonio.