Minister Matthew Condemns Killing of George ‘Charlie’ Barnes

Published

Minister of Education, Sports, & Creative Industries Daryll Matthew has joined the chorus of voices condemning the fatal shooting of well-known businessman George “Charlie” Barnes, describing the attack as both “senseless” and “outrageous.”

“I am saddened and outraged by the senseless killing of Charlie last night. His life was senselessly cut short, leaving family, friends, and our community in shock and grief,” Matthew said in a statement. “Acts of violence such as this bring nothing but pain and must be condemned in the strongest terms. May Charlie’s soul rest in peace.

Barnes, owner of Charlie’s Gas Station on Sir Sydney Walling Highway, was gunned down outside his Ottos home late Friday night. Police said he was shot in the chest around 10 p.m. by armed assailants who fled the scene in a vehicle.

The murder has shaken the nation, with tributes pouring in from residents, business leaders, and government officials alike. Police have launched a high-level investigation and are urging anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913.

Barnes, widely regarded as a pillar of Antigua’s business community, is being remembered as a hardworking and approachable figure whose sudden loss has left a deep void.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/09/13/minister-matthew-condemns-killing-of-george-charlie-barnes. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Cory Wayland

About the author

Cory Wayland is the Social Media Co-ordinator at Antigua.News, where he manages digital content strategy, audience engagement, and real-time news publications across social platforms. With a keen eye for trending topics and a commitment to factual storytelling, Cory plays a key role in shaping the online voice of Antigua.News.

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Comments (8)

  • Anya September 13, 2025, 1:23 PM

    There’s more to this story..wasn’t a robbery. So what was it
    Reply
  • Juju Bee September 13, 2025, 1:55 PM

    Yes i keep wondering if anything was stolen. Were there cameras in the area?
    Reply
  • Unruly September 13, 2025, 2:51 PM

    It doesnt add up. You didn’t deserve this Charlie. Justice for Charlie.
    Reply
  • Resident September 13, 2025, 4:27 PM

    The police will not get help from the public when the public dont trust them
    Reply
  • unruly one September 13, 2025, 5:36 PM

    May God comfort his family during this time of need. Really sorry to hear about this.
    Reply
  • Iyana September 13, 2025, 9:07 PM

    He didnt have to do this way. He should have been alive tonight. This is very sad
    Reply
  • Informed citizen September 13, 2025, 10:41 PM

    A man trying to make a living is gunned down this is beyond outrageous. Condolences to his family
    Reply
  • Plane talk September 14, 2025, 4:24 AM

    To many crime happening in our country. All those Yong men and women who are not from here and are not making a meaningful contribution to Antigua need to be sent back to home land.
    Reply

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