There is widespread expression of shock, heartbreak and outrage following reports that the 8-year-old girl whose throat had been slashed died at hospital this morning (June 10).

Danielle Rowe had undergone emergency surgery and had been in critical condition up to yesterday.

The child was reportedly abducted from the Braeton Primary school in St Catherine, found by a soldier in St Andrew hours later, and taken to hospital.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the death of the 8-year-old child must be considered as a charge on the collective conscience of Jamaicans.

He urged anyone with information or knowledge of the incident to immediately inform the police.

He said Jamaicans cannot be silent or protect those responsible for this gruesome act.

Meantime, Opposition Leader, Mark Golding said Rowe’s death represents another instance of how low the country has fallen in caring for its children.

And, National Security Minister Dr Horace Dr Chang said an attack of this nature on a vulnerable young child is abhorrent and must be strongly condemned.

He said the police are utilizing every available investigative measure to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.