The head of the Hispanic community in Antigua and Barbuda, Alex Martinez, has spoken out forcefully in defence of his community amid growing criticism over the level of support provided to 16-year-old Yennefer Bridge, who was brutally murdered last year.
Yennefer, who became a mother at just 14, was found dead in a wooded area along Fig Tree Drive on 28 June 2024. Hours before her body was discovered, her two-year-old son was found wandering alone along Jonas Road. No one has been charged in connection with her death.
Martinez said the community had been “actively involved” in supporting Yennefer and her family during her life, and her tragic death left many in the community “devastated.”
“We all were helping her in some kind of way,” Martinez said, noting that members of the community, particularly older residents, routinely provided items for Yennefer’s baby. “People speak like they know things, but they don’t. When I saw that picture of Yennefer’s body, I was devastated. I never even crossed words with her before, but it felt like I lost a family member.”
In the wake of Yennefer’s death, Martinez said community members organised a vigil and drove together to Johnson’s Point to pay their respects. He also confirmed that he remains in contact with police investigators and has spoken to senior officers about the ongoing investigation.
“I spoke to Mr Wait from the police force two weeks ago. He said they’re still investigating. I’m doing what I can to give the case a push,” Martinez said, while also urging the police to do more to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Yennefer’s father, who now resides in Santo Domingo, is reportedly unwell. Martinez said he has been in contact with him as the family continues to grieve and seek closure.
“Her little boy still asks where his mother is. How do you answer that? It’s very painful — not just for people in Antigua, but for any family anywhere in the world.”
Martinez stressed that the call for justice transcends nationality or ethnicity.
“This is not about Hispanic Antiguans or Americans or anyone else. This is about a murdered girl and a grieving family. The person who killed her discarded her like garbage. We need answers, and we won’t rest until justice is done.”
The tragic case has reignited conversations about the support available to young mothers and vulnerable youth. Martinez affirmed that the Hispanic community will continue to support Yennefer’s now three-year-old son and his grandmother through moral and financial assistance.
He also confirmed that discussions have taken place with Michael Joseph, the ABLP caretaker for St John’s Rural West, where the child now resides, about further support for the family.
Police investigations into the murder of Yennefer Bridge remain ongoing. Authorities have interviewed several individuals, including her boyfriend, but no arrests have been made.