Community Advocate Condemns Murder of Businessman George “Charlie” Barnes

Community advocate Jermaine N. Edwards of St. John’s Rural South has expressed deep grief and outrage over the fatal shooting of well-known businessman George “Charlie” Barnes, describing the act as “tragic, senseless, and wholly unacceptable.”

Barnes, the 74-year-old owner of Charlie’s Gas Station on Sir Sidney Walling Highway, was gunned down outside his Ottos Newtown home on Friday night. Police have since launched an investigation.

In a statement released on Saturday, Edwards said she had known Barnes personally for many years and remembered him as “a strong individual of conviction, hardworking, approachable, and always willing to engage in meaningful conversation.” She added that Barnes’ life was undeserving of such a violent end, which has left his family and community in mourning.

Edwards stressed that the impact of such crimes extends beyond the immediate victim. “When such tragedies occur, they do not only strike one family, they send ripples of fear through every household. If it can happen to one of us, it can happen to any of us, and that reality is deeply disturbing” she said.

The community advocate extended condolences to the Barnes family and urged anyone with information to assist police. “Silence protects no one but those who perpetrate violence,” she said, stressing that every citizen has a responsibility to help bring justice.

Edwards further called for unity, vigilance, and resilience in the face of such crimes. “We must be vigilant, protect each other, and refuse to allow senseless acts like this to define our way of life. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to building a society where every individual,our families, neighbors, and friends, can live free from fear,” she said.

Police continue to appeal for information as investigations into Barnes’ killing continue.