Howard Campbell and Rasbert Turner, Gleaner Writers

( L - R ) Harris and Lewis

Two members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force were killed in an auto accident in Bog Walk, St. Catherine, yesterday morning.

They have been identified as Phillip Harris and Dawn Lewis, both constables attached to the Clark's Town Police Station in Trelawny. A third policeman, Constable Richard Thompson, who was also in the service car, has been admitted to hospital in serious condition.

It was reported that about 8:30, a Suzuki Vitara service vehicle driven by Lewis, was heading towards Spanish Town.

Lewis was attempting to overtake a truck that was turning right but instead ran into its back. The police vehicle was thrown to the right side of the road, demolishing a washstand, colliding with a tree before landing in a gully.

Constables Lewis and Harris were killed instantly. The driver of the truck was reportedly treated by a private doctor.

Minister of National Security, Dr. Peter Phillips, and Police Commissioner Lucius Thomas both said they were distressed at the fatalities. So too Derrick Smith, the Opposition Spokesman on National Security.

"The need for everyone to observe proper use of the roadways cannot be overemphasised," said Dr. Phillips in a statement. "Motor-vehicle accidents are claiming the lives of too many of our policemen and citizens."

Mr. Thomas, while expressing 'shock and disbelief' at the tragedy, echoed Dr. Phillips.

"My feeling of shock and disbelief comes from the fact that the force has not only lost two of its young members, but also because three police officers have died in motor-vehicle accidents over the last month," the commissioner said.

For his part, Mr. Smith said: "The loss of any life by motor-vehicle accident is a great tragedy, but the pain is even greater when it involves members of the security forces who are killed while carrying out their duties to protect and serve the public."