Members of the Senate today (Sep 21) condemned the brazen killing of Pastor James Johnson at his church in Spanish Town St. Catherine yesterday.

The minister of religion was shot seven times.

The senators made the comments while speaking during the debate for the extension of the state of emergency, in the St. Catherine North police division, where the church leader was murdered.

Leader of Government Business, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith said Johnson’s murder sends the signal that criminals are now disregarding rules they once maintained against vulnerable groups and sacred places.

Senator Johnson Smith said Johnson’s murder shows why the enhanced security measures are critical at this point.

And, Opposition Senator Lambert Brown offered his condolences to the family of the young pastor.

Meanwhile, Opposition Senator Damion Crawford also condemned the killing, noting that the country has lost a bright young man, who was making a contribution to the society.