By PAVEL BAILEY
Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
AN 18-year-old man was granted bail yesterday after he was accused of setting fire to Cafe Matisse and causing $32,845 in damage.
Prosecutors allege Jayden Burrows and an accomplice set fire to the restaurant on East Street North and Bank Lane around 1.44am on June 18.
During the same incident, which police did not tell the press about despite repeated inquiries by The Tribune, Burrows allegedly injured Denasho Johnson.
Reports indicate that an officer leaving Central Police Station saw two men in dark clothing and ski masks acting suspiciously that night.
The officer followed the men as they entered an alley. One suspect fled, while the other allegedly threw a flammable substance onto the roof of the restaurant and set it ablaze.
The officer reportedly approached the man, leading to a struggle. During the altercation, the man allegedly stabbed the officer in his right hand.
The Tribune understands that the officer discharged four rounds from his service weapon, striking the suspect.
The suspect was taken to Princess Margaret Hospital for surgery. The officer was also injured in the incident.
By the time firefighters arrived, rain had reportedly extinguished the fire. The roof of the building sustained minor damage.
Burrows was not required to enter a plea to arson of a building and causing harm before acting Chief Magistrate Ancella Evans.
He was informed that his matter would proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment.
Burrows’ bail was set at $8,500 with one or two sureties. He must sign in at the Nassau Street Police Station every Thursday by 6pm. He must also obey a daily 6pm to 6am curfew.
The accused returns to court for service of his VBI on October 8.
Inspector Deon Barr prosecuted the case, while Levan Johnson represented the accused.
Commenting has been disabled for this item.