Teenager dies intervening in domestic dispute; agency calls for action

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) in Jamaica has expressed profound sadness following the death of 13-year-old Kemelia Paul. The Excelsior High School student succumbed to injuries sustained after she was stabbed while attempting to break up a domestic dispute at her home in St. Andrew.

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The death of Kemelia Paul is heartbreaking and deeply troubling. We mourn the loss of a young life filled with promise, and extend our sincere condolences to her family, loved ones, classmates and teachers during this very difficult time.

Laurette Adams-Thomas, CEO of the CPFSA, extended condolences to Kemelia's family, friends, and school community. "The death of Kemelia Paul is heartbreaking and deeply troubling," Adams-Thomas stated, mourning the loss of a young life and emphasizing the tragedy's impact.

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Children should not be placed at risk in situations like this. We have to look at the state of our families and the importance of protecting our children through building healthy home environments.

The incident serves as a "sobering reminder of the devastating impact domestic violence can have on children and families," Adams-Thomas noted. She stressed that children should not be placed at risk in such situations, highlighting the responsibility of adults to protect them. "Our children should never feel that they must step in to protect adults when it is the responsibility of adults to protect them," she added.

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Our children should never feel that they must step in to protect adults when it is the responsibility of adults to protect them.

Adams-Thomas urged all Jamaicans to contribute to creating safe spaces for children, free from fear and violence. She called for prioritizing early intervention, seeking support, utilizing available resources, and reporting abuse. The CPFSA CEO also pointed to various organizations, including the Dispute Resolution Foundation, National Parenting Support Commission, Bureau of Gender Affairs, and local health services, as resources for those experiencing domestic violence or seeking help.

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Too many of our children are being exposed to conflict, abuse and violence within the very spaces where they should feel safe. As parents, guardians and caregivers, we must do everything within our power to ensure that our homes are places of respect, peace and protection.