July 11, 2024 — Kingston, Jamaica:
The tragic search for 20-year-old Alrick Moncrieffe, also known as Kalonji and Lala, has ended in heartbreak. His body was recovered Thursday morning, days after he was swept away by floodwaters in Havana, Arnett Gardens, St. Andrew, during the passage of Hurricane Beryl last week.
According to police reports, Moncrieffe’s body was found at approximately 10:45 a.m. in the water near the Petrojam plant in Kingston. Marine Police towed the body to the Greenwich Farm fishing village, where his family formally identified him around 11:15 a.m.
A Day of Play Turned Tragic
Moncrieffe was last seen playing football with friends when the ball fell into a nearby gully. In a split-second decision, he attempted to retrieve it. However, the gully — swollen by torrential rain from Hurricane Beryl — quickly overwhelmed him, and he was swept away by the fast-moving waters.
Search and rescue efforts were launched immediately, with community members and authorities hoping for a miracle. Sadly, the discovery confirms the worst fears of his loved ones and the wider Arnett Gardens community.
Remembering Alrick "Kalonji" Moncrieffe
Known by friends and neighbors as a kind-hearted and energetic young man, Alrick’s untimely passing has left many in mourning. Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes, prayers, and condolences under the hashtags #RIPKalonji and #JusticeForAlrick, reflecting the heartbreak felt by many.
His tragic story is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by Jamaica’s drainage systems during severe weather events.
Hurricane Beryl's Deadly Impact
Hurricane Beryl brought torrential rains and widespread flooding across Jamaica, triggering evacuations, property damage, and multiple reports of persons missing or injured. Alrick Moncrieffe’s death adds to the list of casualties being tracked as the island recovers from the storm’s impact.
Emergency responders and local authorities continue to urge the public to avoid gullies, rivers, and flooded areas, especially during adverse weather.
Our Thoughts
The loss of Alrick Moncrieffe is a painful moment for both his family and the broader community of Arnett Gardens. As Jamaica begins to rebuild and reflect in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, this tragedy serves as a call for greater safety measures and community awareness during future storms.
Rest in peace, Kalonji.
Need Help or Want to Help?
To support affected families or learn more about safety tips during hurricane season, follow updates from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and local emergency services.