BYDC condemns senseless violence after teen’s death

The Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC) has expressed profound sorrow and outrage over the death of a 13-year-old boy who was shot at Silver Hill, Christ Church last night.

“We are deeply heartbroken by the passing of this young life,” BYDC President Caleb Brathwaite said in a statement.

“This tragedy is a stark and painful reminder that our young people are being robbed of their futures by senseless violence. A child’s life should never be cut short in this way. We condemn this act in the strongest possible terms and call for justice to be served swiftly.”

Below is the full text of the BYDC statement:

The Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC) is deeply heartbroken by the passing of the 13-year-old boy who was shot in Silver Hill, Christ Church, on March 25, 2025. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and community as they navigate this unimaginable grief.

This tragedy is a painful reminder that our young people are being robbed of their futures due to senseless violence. A child’s life should never be cut short in this way. We condemn this act in the strongest possible terms and call for justice to be served swiftly.

The BYDC remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for safer communities, addressing the root causes of crime, and ensuring that young people have opportunities to grow and thrive in an environment free from fear. We urge all stakeholders, government agencies, law enforcement, civil society, and community leaders to take urgent action to prevent the further loss of young lives to violence.

We also encourage anyone with information about this tragic incident to cooperate with the authorities. Silence only allows the cycle of violence to continue.

As we mourn, let us also be moved to action. Our young people deserve better. Our communities deserve better. Barbados deserves better.