Manchester Labourer Charged in Shooting That Killed 4-Year-Old Girl

Manchester, Jamaica – A 25-year-old labourer has been formally charged in connection with the shooting that claimed the life of 4-year-old Saniyah O’Brien and injured her father in the Woodstock and Land Settlement areas of Manchester on Sunday, February 8.

Police have identified the accused as Oneish Copeland, also known as “Dabba,” from the New Wales district. He faces multiple charges, including murder, wounding with intent, two counts of shooting with intent, malicious destruction of property, conspiracy to murder, possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorized possession of ammunition, and using a firearm to commit a felony.

Reports indicate that around 4:30 p.m., Saniyah and her father were seated in a Toyota Voxy when a Toyota Axio pulled up. Copeland allegedly exited the vehicle and opened fire, striking both victims before fleeing the scene in the waiting car. Emergency services transported the father and daughter to hospital, where Saniyah was pronounced dead.

An intensive police investigation followed. On Friday, February 13, Copeland was arrested during an intelligence-led operation and charged after a formal question-and-answer session in the presence of his attorney. A court date is pending.

Superintendent Carey Duncan, commanding officer of the Manchester Police Division, praised the investigative team for their diligence, noting that four of the five murders reported in the parish this year have already been solved. He reaffirmed the division’s commitment to maintaining peace and safety in Manchester for all residents.