Manchester most wanted fatally shot by police during alleged confrontation in Trelawny

Manchester’s most wanted, Oral Cole, was shot and killed by police on Thursday during an alleged confrontation in Trelawny.

According to police reports, a team from Manchester was conducting reconnaissance operations in connection with Cole.

According to the police, Cole was linked to multiple crimes in Manchester and was described as a major threat to several communities.

Police say Cole was accosted in the Albert Town area and, according to them, opened fire at the officers, who returned fire.

During the exchange, an officer was shot in the chest but was saved by a bulletproof vest, according to the police.

Both were taken to the Percy Junior Hospital in Manchester, where Cole was pronounced dead, and the police officer was treated and released.

Police say a .40 calibre pistol was removed from Cole, and the incident was reported to the Independent Commission of Investigations.

Superintendent Carey Duncan, commanding officer and head of the Manchester Police Division, said the operation highlighted the resilience and investigative capabilities of his team.

He also warned criminals against engaging the police in armed confrontations when officers move to apprehend them.

The police say Cole, who was also known as ‘Ras Oral’ and ‘Pretty Ras’, has a documented history of serious criminal involvement spanning nearly a decade.

They say his known criminal history dates back to November 9, 2016, when he was arrested and charged with shooting with intent.

In June 2023, he escaped from custody at the Black River Lock-Up.

At the time, he was before the St Elizabeth Circuit Court facing a charge of robbery with aggravation.

Police say subsequent information linked him to multiple violent crimes in 2025.

He is listed as a person of interest in the murder of Constantine Myers, also known as ‘Old Soldier’ or ‘Juvy’, who was shot and killed on June 17, 2025, in Manchester.

He was also wanted for the murder of 30-year-old farmer Ojay Gooden, which occurred on October 21, 2025, in Canewood, Manchester.

Additionally, Cole is identified as a person of interest in a rape case committed on December 17, 2022.

The Independent Commission of Investigations has reported that 77 people have been fatally shot by members of the security forces since this year.

- Sashana Small

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