Peter Tosh was more than a reggae icon—he was a warrior for justice, a rebel with a cause, and one of the boldest voices in music history. While the world knew him for his music and militant stance on equal rights and cannabis legalization, the tragic and chilling events that unfolded in his final hours shocked even his closest followers. This is the story of how one of reggae's greatest legends met his untimely and brutal end.
The Return Home
It was September 11, 1987. Peter Tosh had just returned to his Kingston, Jamaica home after a period of travel and music promotion. His return was a quiet one, intended to be a time of rest. Friends began to gather at his house to welcome him back. But what was supposed to be a peaceful reunion turned into a nightmare.
A Betrayal of Kindness
Among the people Tosh had once helped was Dennis “Leppo” Lobban, an ex-convict whom Tosh tried to rehabilitate. He gave Lobban money, tried to get him a job, and even offered him a second chance at life. But on that fateful night, Lobban allegedly repaid Tosh’s generosity with violence. He and two other armed men stormed Tosh’s home, demanding cash they believed Tosh was hiding.
The Hostage Situation
For nearly two hours, the gunmen held Tosh and several of his guests at gunpoint. Those present included Wilton “Doc” Brown, Free-I (a popular radio DJ), Tosh’s partner Marlene, and several musicians. Despite repeated pleas and Tosh’s insistence that he had no money, the men grew agitated.
The situation escalated quickly. Without warning, the gunmen opened fire.
The Final Moments
Peter Tosh was shot twice in the head. Doc Brown and Free-I were also fatally wounded. Others were critically injured but survived. The senseless violence sent shockwaves throughout Jamaica and the global music community. A legend had been silenced—not by illness or old age—but by the very violence he had long spoken out against.
Justice?
Dennis Lobban later surrendered to police and was charged with the murders. He claimed he was innocent, but eyewitness accounts placed him at the scene. He was found guilty and sentenced to death—a sentence later commuted to life in prison. The other two men were never caught. To this day, many questions remain about what truly happened and who was really behind the attack.
The Legacy Lives On
Peter Tosh’s voice may have been silenced that night, but his message lives on louder than ever. Songs like “Equal Rights,” “Legalize It,” and “Get Up, Stand Up” continue to echo across generations. He stood for the oppressed, the poor, the outcast—and he never backed down.
His death was tragic, but it’s a reminder of the high cost that often comes with speaking truth to power.
In remembering Tosh, we honor not just a reggae artist, but a fearless freedom fighter whose courage will never be forgotten.