WESTERN BUREAU:

The community of Dias, Hanover, was covered in a tapestry of sorrow and shock yesterday as teary-eyed residents struggled to come to terms with the brazen gun slaying of Pastor Lynford Richie.

Another man, 41-year-old carpenter Godfrey Cunningham, was also killed.

Winter said it would be difficult for Richie's relatives and friends to recover.

The 45-year-old pastor was in charge of the Rivers of Life 2 Church in the district for more than 15 years.

He was also a self-employed taxi operator who dabbled in farming. He is survived by his wife - who was injured in the attack - and two children.

Terrible loss

His 14-year-old daughter was distraught over what she termed a "terrible loss to the family".

As she spoke, she was unable to fight back the emotions as she remembered her father.

"He was the best father one could ever ask for. He was always there for us," she cried.

A close friend and fellow church member who requested anonymity said Richie's death would leave a huge void at the church.

"He was a pastor for all," his friend noted.

"Most of all, he was a man for the community, very reliable and generous. I can't come to terms with why someone would shoot and kill him."

According to police reports, Cunningham, a 21-year-old unidentified male and a 44-year-old unidentified female were sitting on the veranda of Richie's home when two masked gunmen approached the three and demanded money.

However, before the individuals were able to respond to the demand, the gunmen opened fire hitting them. They both survived.

Cunningham reportedly rushed inside Richie's house, but the thugs kicked open the door and fired shots, killing him. Richie, who was awakened by the explosions, tried to jump through a window, but was killed before escaping. All residents are from Dias.

sheena.gayle@gleanerjm.com