Shawn Clarke urges action after shooting of 13-year-old

A 13-year-old boy was shot in Silver Hill on Tuesday, March 25, after being caught in the crossfire of a violent altercation. The incident has sparked renewed concern over gun violence in Barbados and prompted calls for urgent intervention to address the growing issue.

In response to the shooting, Supreme Counselling for Personal Development issued a statement urging Barbadians to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and take collective action.

“This is no longer a ‘Clarke’s family’ issue because their son is acting out, nor a ‘Browne’s family’ issue because their daughter is wayward. The surname of the troubled child is now Barbados,” the statement read.

Shawn Clarke, CEO of Supreme Counselling, expressed concern over the trajectory of young people in the country and emphasised the need for earlier intervention.

“The trajectory of many of our young people is deeply concerning. We are intervening too late—after they’ve dropped out, after they’ve picked up a weapon, after they’ve been buried,” Clarke said.

He added that collaboration between Government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) is critical in addressing the issue effectively.

“Government can’t do it alone. NGOs can’t do it alone. But together, we can be the change we want to see. There must be serious Government-NGO collaboration to save our youth—and ultimately, to save our nation.”

The statement called for a range of measures, including stricter enforcement against illegal firearms, increased access to counselling and mental health services in schools, and expanded job training programs for young people.

Barbadians were also encouraged to take a more active role in their communities by mentoring young people, reporting illegal activity, and supporting organisations working with at-risk youth.

“The tragedy in Silver Hill must not pass in vain. It must be the spark for real, united action. We owe that to the young boy who was shot. We owe it to his family. We owe it to every child walking our streets today, unsure if they’ll make it home,” the statement said.

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the call for action remains clear. Clarke urged all sectors of society to work together to address youth violence, stating:

“Because the future of Barbados is not an idea. It’s our children. And the time to act is now. Together, we can be the change we want to see.” (PR)