The St James Police are this afternoon still trying to determine a motive for the murder of Montego Bay-based obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Barrington Dixon.

Dr Dixon was killed yesterday at his home in Spring Gardens, Montego Bay by gunmen, who broke in and shot him.

Deputy Superintendent in charge of crime in St James, Winston Hunt says the police are probing with an open mind. Dr Dixon's death sent shockwaves through the medical fraternity and prompted responses from health minister, Dr Fenton Ferguson and Opposition spokesman on health, Dr Kenneth Baugh, who are also medical practitioners.

Dr Baugh, who said he was a close friend of the Dr Dixon's, said his killing sent a bad signal to the world and would result in serious consequences for the country. Meanwhile, Dr Ferguson hailed Dr Dixon for his distinguished service to the practice of medicine.

Dr Dixon served for more than 30 years at the Cornwall Regional Hospital in St James, spending more than 20 years as its senior medical officer.