(Jamaica Gleaner) The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) is expressing shock and outrage at the tragic death of veteran journalist Barbara Gayle.
In a media release on Tuesday, the PAJ hailed her as a “trailblazing journalist who dedicated her life to chronicling the complexities of Jamaica’s justice system.”
“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.
The PAJ said Gayle’s unparallelled dedication to the court beat set a standard for beat reporting, earning her the trust and respect of judges, attorneys, prosecutors, and court staff.
“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,” it stated.
The association recently honoured Gayle for her years of dedicated service to journalism at the annual PAJ Veteran’s luncheon, during National Journalism Week in late November.
Gayle was found dead at her home in Caymanas Estate in St Catherine on Tuesday. The details of the circumstances surrounding her death are still unknown.
