Etana Mourns Loss Of Two Cousins Amid Ongoing Gang Violence In August Town

Reggae singer Etana is grieving the loss of two cousins amid an ongoing wave of gang violence rocking the ‘Vietnam’ enclave of August Town, St. Andrew.

The singer’s cousins, who are brothers, were killed within a span of just two weeks in incidents that have left residents on edge and heightened fears of reprisal violence in the community.

The latest killing occurred early Saturday morning after police responded to reports of a house fire at approximately 3:15 a.m. Upon arrival, officers reportedly discovered the body of one of Etana’s cousins, a mentally ill man known in the community as “Bupty.”

Police suspect that unknown assailants allegedly firebombed the house before opening gunfire on Bupty as he attempted to flee the burning building.

The brutal attack came only weeks after Etana’s other cousin was gunned down by armed men in what investigators believe may be a connected incident.

Police are now probing whether Saturday’s firebombing and killing were carried out in retaliation for the earlier murder as tensions continue to rise in the area.

When contacted, Etana was too emotionally dazed by the shocking incident to comment.

The heartbreaking developments come during what should have been a celebratory period for the Reggae singer. Earlier this year, Etana was named Jamaica’s first-ever Reggae Month Ambassador, a role aimed at promoting and preserving the island’s rich musical heritage.

Born Shauna McKenzie, the August Town native was also conferred with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer in 2025 for her contribution to Jamaican music.

Etana first rose to prominence in 2006 with her breakout hit “Wrong Address,” a socially conscious anthem that resonated deeply with Jamaicans and reggae fans worldwide. The song launched her into stardom and established her reputation as one of reggae’s most respected modern voices.

Over the years, the singer has earned two Grammy nominations in the Best Reggae Album category and has built an international fan base through hits that blend reggae, soul, and conscious music.