Ex-Firefighter Who Threatened Suicide at Half Way Tree Transport Centre Now Hospitalized

HALF WAY TREE, St Andrew — A 35-year-old former firefighter who mounted the Half Way Tree Transport Centre on Monday, threatening to take his own life, is now receiving medical care at the Kingston Public Hospital.

Shadane Gentles, who is from St. Catherine, climbed the St. Andrew landmark shortly after 3 p.m., drawing the attention of scores of onlookers. The situation prompted an emergency response involving the police and the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB).

Keith Blake, General Manager of the Half Way Tree Transport Centre, detailed the events, saying, “This afternoon we saw the gentleman up there and alerted the police. They called the fire brigade, and they [firefighters] recognized him as one of their former colleagues.”

The intervention of former colleagues proved critical. Firefighters contacted Gentles’ father and wife, who arrived on the scene. A firefighter and former colleague eventually climbed up and persuaded Gentles to come down safely.

“Thank God no life was lost,” Blake added, reflecting the collective relief of those gathered. Onlookers cheered and clapped as Gentles descended.

Gentles was taken to the Half Way Tree Police Station, where mental health personnel later transferred him to Kingston Public Hospital for assessment.

While the exact motive behind the incident remains unclear, sources indicate it may be linked to domestic disputes.

This is not the first time the Half Way Tree Transport Centre has been the site of such an incident. In March 2023, suspended firefighter Sergeant Leo Bennett staged a one-man protest atop the landmark, demanding better working conditions for firefighters.

Authorities are encouraging individuals experiencing personal crises to seek professional help and utilize available mental health resources.