Police launch murder hunt as horse racing jockey gunned down at home

Jamaican police have launched a murder investigation following the fatal shooting of a prominent jockey. Oneil Mullings, 49, had secured three victories in the United States but was particularly celebrated domestically, having achieved 415 wins at Caymanas Park since completing his training at the jockeys' academy in 2002.

Officers in St Andrew South, Kingston, confirmed on Sunday that Mullings had died after being confronted by an armed assailant who shot him in the head. He was rushed to hospital where medical staff later declared him dead. Detectives have identified two brothers, who had allegedly undertaken construction work at the jockey's residence, as individuals of interest in the investigation.

The tragic news has sent shockwaves through Jamaica's racing fraternity, with Supreme Ventures, which owns Caymanas Park, paying tribute to Mullings as an esteemed member of the sport.

"His dedication and skill in the saddle made him a respected figure among his peers and in Jamaica's racing community," a statement said.

"We express our deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues in the racing fraternity, and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace."

Philip Parchment, president of the Jamaica Jockeys' Guild, expressed his devastation at losing a close friend.

"From the time I got the news, it was the most devastating news that I have ever gotten in a while now," he told the Jamaica Gleaner.

"I don't think I have the words to explain how I am feeling. I couldn't even sleep, because I was very tormented and upset."

He further added: "Mullings was a very jovial person because he was always messing around with us and giving jokes, and he was just always coming with something to make us laugh, and so that is the type of person that he is."