UTech 'heartbroken' after student found dead in St Catherine

The University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) is “heartbroken” following the death of third-year engineering student Michael Patterson, whose partially decomposed body was found in a St Catherine canal on Tuesday.

“This senseless loss of a young life filled with promise is a stark reminder of the violence plaguing our society and the urgent need for collective action,” said Dr Kevin Brown, the university's president on a statement on Thursday. “Michael was a hardworking and affable student with a bright future in his chosen field of engineering .... He did not deserve to have his life taken in such a brutal manner.”

Patterson was pursuing a Bachelor of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering and Computing.

“Our university community is deeply heartbroken by the devastating death of yet another student. The incident has sent shock waves across the university community and has reopened wounds and sorrow that remain fresh following the tragic murder of first-year student Anisa Dilworth in May 2025.”

The university noted that Patterson was reported missing by his family on Monday. After being contacted by a relative, UTech’s Safety and Security Unit assisted the police with relevant information.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force has launched an investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Brown said Patterson served as a peer tutor through the UTech Students’ Union Tutoring Programme, supporting fellow students while pursuing his own studies.

“The incident has sent shock waves across the university community and has reopened wounds and sorrow that remain fresh following the tragic murder of first-year student Anisa Dilworth in May 2025," the president added. A man is in custody in relation to that alleged crime.

UTech said counselling and pastoral support are being provided to students, lecturers, and staff affected by the tragedy.

The university is also urging vigilance and reminding students that its Neighbourhood Shuttle Bus service is available for those requiring transportation after late evening classes.

Brown said the institution is reviewing its security protocols and will announce enhanced safety measures as they are implemented.

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