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

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Senator Michael Joseph,

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.

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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.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/06/01/surge-in-gun-violence-raises-alarm-in-st-johns-rural-west. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (7)

  • Antigua Surf June 1, 2025, 9:41 AM

    It takes more than just a community and I’m happy that Mr. Joseph is seeing this! With government and community and God a, any strong force can be broken down
    Reply
  • Anonymous June 1, 2025, 9:43 AM

    The Grays Green community has been like this for years. Care if I ask the question, why is only how some official is talking out? We need change and we need it now! How can we fight crimes as a nation?
    Reply
  • White anon rabbit June 1, 2025, 9:47 AM

    Comment *make it easy for home owners with legitimate income to own a gun. Change the laws to empty the clip on a burglar, teach business in school as early as grade 1. Empower the nation. Ud be surprised the run around one must jump thru when starting a small business. Things u never know u finding out. Lol
    Reply
  • Cindy June 1, 2025, 1:21 PM

    I always wondered why these places are stigmatized. Yes there are alot of violence but good things can come from grays farm and good things have some from there. I know the minister means well. I await his remarkable intelligence and his zill to take care of his people
    Reply
  • Unruly One June 1, 2025, 9:38 PM

    Guns have aleays been prevalant in Grays Green and the point area. Lot of drugs sell in them areas so that is no news tbh
    Reply
  • Apex Jones June 2, 2025, 9:44 AM

    The community needs a shake up
    Reply
  • Ben Simmons June 3, 2025, 1:21 PM

    It’s really disheartening to see the rise in violence in Grays Farm since I left. I grew up in that community, and it was always about beef and fighting and killing. I hope Senator Michael Joseph’s call for urgent attention to this issue leads to concrete action. The community deserves to feel safe again. I truly wish for the best for everyone still living there.
    Reply

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