By: Fabian Ledgister, Staff Reporter

After two incidents of gunfire in the vicinity of the Brite Lite Funeral Services, owner Tommy Thompson says the recent violence has nothing to do with his business.

"I just came back from overseas where I was dealing with some medical problems ... I am a well-respected man in the area and the funeral business, and as I understand, none of the incidents has anything to do with Brite Lite," said Thompson.

On Sunday, two shots hit the building of the funeral home, but no injuries were reported from that incident. Two days later (Tuesday), a man transacting business at the funeral home, was shot and injured after he left the premises.

Thompson expressed deep condolences to the client who was almost killed on Tuesday along with his family, but states that the incident had nothing to do with his business.

"I truly am angered and deeply regret what happened. It seems like someone may have been trailing him and ambushed him at a different address along Dillion avenue," said Thompson, who pointed out that the shooting incident did not occur at the gate of his business.

Police affirmed the business owner's sentiments as reports indicated that the shooting incident occurred at 3 Dillion avenue, while Brite Lite is located at 1 Dillion avenue. Thompson also claims that his dialogue with residents in the area revealed that Sunday morning's shooting was not intended for his business.

"There was a dispute in the area that I prefer not to reveal, but some stray shots from that dispute landed over Brite Lite ... The people have come to me and apologised, and everything is settled ... They respect me and my business," said Thompson.

"Brite Lite is being painted as not being safe for my customers, and I would like them to know that there is nothing to worry about ... We have taken Jamaica to a level in funeral services that is unprecedented, and we will continue to do what we do best, and that is to change the sorrow of a death, into a celebration and remembrance of a life," said Thompson.

While Thompson gives the assurance that the environs are safe for customers, he says he now offers a pick-up/ mobile consultation service for those who might be apprehensive since the shooting incidents.

"If anyone wants to come but is unsure, we will pick them up, or if they prefer, we will take the consultation to them at their home. This has left me distraught, but we are all God's children and we must learn to live in unity ... Whatever the problem was with the man who was attacked, guns is not the answer. Differences can be settled without violence," said Thompson.