Surge in Gun Violence Raises Alarm in St John’s Rural West

Senator Michael Joseph has voiced serious concerns over a troubling rise in criminal activities within the St John’s Rural West constituency, particularly highlighting incidents involving firearms.

The latest victim was Andre “Kenyatta” Mills of Lovelace Road, who sustained a wound to his right leg, inflicted by unknown assailants. This is the second time someone has tried to kill him.

The Grays Farm community specifically has been plagued with numerous gun-related crimes in recent months, a matter that Joseph said should not be taken lightly.

During a Senate session Friday, the caretaker from the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) expressed the need for urgent attention to the escalating gun violence affecting the community.

Joseph pointed to a recent shooting in Gray’s Farm on May 25th and recalled a murder that shocked residents earlier in March on Christian Street. “…The Rural West community has been grappling with escalating gun violence, which has deeply affected our community,” he stated.

During his presentation, Joseph recounted a meeting with a grieving mother whose son was a victim of gun violence.

He emphasized the need for the Rural West community to come together and resolve conflicts peacefully rather than resort to violence.

Highlighting the enduring trauma caused by such tragedies, he called on local law enforcement to intensify their efforts against violent crime.

The senator expressed deep concern for families affected by gun violence and urged the police commissioner to prioritize safety, especially for younger generations, advocating for unity in the fight against violence in the community.