By Admin. Updated 10:50 a.m., Friday, October 2, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
The St Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council is calling for calm, rejecting retaliation and urging a thorough investigation following the shooting in Green Hill that claimed the lives of four Vincentians.
In a statement issued following the incident on Friday, September 25, the Council expressed “profound sorrow” over the loss of life and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
The Council also prayed for the recovery of those injured and for comfort and healing for people who witnessed the incident or have otherwise been affected by it.
“As Christians, we affirm that every human being is created in the image of God,” the Council said, describing the taking of human life as a grave assault on human dignity.
It condemned the violence and warned against allowing bloodshed to become accepted as a normal part of life in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
“Every such incident demands both a just response and renewed commitment to preventing further loss of life,” the Council said.
The Christian Council is urging all concerned to remain calm and reject retaliation. It is also encouraging anyone with information that could assist the police investigation to come forward.
The Council has, meanwhile, appealed to members of the public to respect the grieving families by refraining from circulating graphic images, unverified allegations and speculation.
It said those responsible should be brought to justice through due process and expressed support for the work of police officers, medical personnel and other first responders dealing with the aftermath of the incident.
Beyond the immediate response, the Council is calling for sustained national efforts to address violence.
It wants the Government, parliamentary Opposition, churches, schools, businesses, community organisations and families to work together on measures aimed at reducing violence. These, it said, should include action against illegal firearms, support for people at risk of becoming involved in violence, assistance for those seeking to leave violent groups, and counselling and care for victims and their families.
The Council also called on churches to examine how they can strengthen their presence in communities by listening to young people, supporting parents, providing pastoral care, helping to resolve conflicts and creating spaces where people can find belonging and hope.
“Prayer must be accompanied by practical expressions of love and service,” the Council said.
While acknowledging the pain caused by the tragedy, the Council expressed confidence that St Vincent and the Grenadines can overcome the situation and work towards a society in which human life is cherished, justice is upheld and communities can live in peace.
Police have still not officially released the names of the victims, but One News SVG can report that the deceased are Steve king, 20yrs, self employed of Green Hill, Antonio Samuel, 30yrs, Labourer of Green Hill, Shaqueil Peters, 26yrs Labourer of Green Hill, and Shevon Chandler, 23yrs, store clerk of Paul’s Avenue.
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