The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and the family of slain Lance Corporal Oral Pinnock, 34, were left in sadness and disbelief after the soldier was killed during a gun battle between gunmen and a joint police/military party in Westmore Gardens, Spanish Town, yesterday.

When THE STAR contacted the JDF's headquarters yesterday, Major Charlene Steer, civil military affairs officer at the JDF, said the widow and extended family of the murdered lance corporal were too distressed to speak on the issue at the moment. However, Major Steer said that there was a sense of sorrow and dismay among the military family in light of the fatal shooting of Pinnock, who had been serving in the army since February 25, 1997.

"The entire military family at this time mourns with the family of the late Lance Corporal Oral Pinnock. His loss as a colleague is felt very deeply and our hearts and prayers go out to his widow and extended family."

The late Lance Corporal Pinnock was a part of a joint police/military operation in the Westmore Gardens area of Johns Road, Spanish Town, when, upon reaching Lot 23 Wildwood Close, gunmen reportedly opened fire at the team. The fire was returned and during the ensuing gun battle Pinnock was fatally shot.