Police hold ‘mentally challenged’ man after $35m Benz rammed through gates at dealer’s lot
Published:Monday | October 23, 2023 | 12:09 AMAinsworth Morris/Staff Reporter
In the aftermath of a bizarre incident Saturday night, a man yesterday remained in police lockup having engaged in a short-lived joyride with a Mercedes Benz GLE 53, valued approximately J$35 million, on the compound of Stewart’s Automotive Group in Kingston.
It is alleged that around 9:00 p.m., the man drove the luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV), knocking down two gates at the establishment. Up to yesterday, parts of the significantly damaged vehicle remained scattered on the ground outside the entrance to the facility.
Michelle Campbell, deputy superintendent of police and acting commanding officer for the Kingston Central Division, where the establishment is located, told The Gleaner that the accused “is suspected to be mentally challenged”.
“He is charged and in custody at the Central lockup,” she said.
When asked how he was able to get behind the wheel, she said: “He went to the back of the premises, gained access to a new 2024 red Mercedes Benz. The police was called, and with the quick response of the police, he was held on the compound.”
Contacted for comment, Jacqueline Stewart Lechler, Stewart’s Automotive Group’s managing director, told The Gleaner, “We have a private matter under investigation and have no comment at this time.”
An individual who was present on location when the incident occurred, said it did not appear that the man intended to steal the vehicle given that he did not drive out on to the main road despite ramming through the gates, exiting a section of the compound and having a clear path to leave.