The Antigua Christian Council has appealed for an end to revenge and urgent, sustained action against gun violence following the double homicide in Creek Side, expressing solidarity with the grieving Rastafari community.

In a pastoral address titled “Choose Life, Reject Violence,” council President the Rev. Dr. Bonnie E.B.W. Smith said the violence affecting the Nyabinghi community underscored that no community was beyond its reach.

“When any part of our nation is wounded, none of us can afford to look away,” Smith said.

Police said a 49-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman, both Creek Side residents, were fatally shot Tuesday afternoon. Preliminary reports indicated that several people arrived in a silver Honda CR-V and that more than one armed occupant exited the vehicle and opened fire outside a shop.

Both victims sustained multiple gunshot wounds and were taken to hospital, where they were pronounced dead.

Addressing the affected community, Smith said differences in religious beliefs did not diminish the council’s concern for their lives and safety.

“Our religious tradition may differ, but our concern for your lives, your families, and your safety is shared,” she said. “You are our neighbors. Your grief matters. Your peace matters.”

The council made a direct appeal to anyone carrying a firearm with the intention of harming another person to put it down and seek help.

“Step away from revenge. Do not make a permanent decision in a moment of anger,” Smith said.

She acknowledged that people involved in conflict might feel hurt, threatened, humiliated or betrayed, but said those feelings must not determine whether another person lives or dies. She urged them to speak with someone they trust who could help them take a safe step away from violence.

Smith also called on national leaders and public safety authorities to deliver “urgent, coordinated, and sustained action,” including thorough investigations, the fair pursuit of justice and resolute efforts to address illegal firearms.

The response, she said, must extend beyond the immediate crisis to include prevention, family support, counseling, education and meaningful opportunities for young people.

“This must not become another tragedy that briefly captures our attention before we return to business as usual,” she said.

Addressing young people, Smith said they were part of the nation’s promise and deserved guidance, safety, opportunity and support. She urged them to reject the idea that carrying a weapon earns respect.

Parents, caregivers, teachers and community leaders were encouraged to take threats seriously and pay attention to people who were withdrawing, struggling or becoming consumed by conflict.

“Let us listen without dismissing, correct without humiliating, and take threats seriously,” she said.

Smith urged churches and other faith communities to turn prayer into practical support by helping grieving families, mentoring young people, assisting with conflict resolution and working across religious boundaries.

She also appealed for responsible conduct online, warning against spreading rumors, glorifying retaliation or sharing distressing images without considering the people affected.

“Remember that someone’s suffering is not entertainment,” she said.

The council urged residents to support those grieving, heed warning signs and demand accountable leadership while accepting responsibility within their own homes and communities.

“We cannot undo the pain already suffered, but we can refuse to deepen it,” Smith said.

Police have appealed to anyone with information about the killings to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or 462-3914, or Crimestoppers at 800-TIPS (8477).

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: VIDEO: Antigua Christian Council urges end to revenge, calls for action after Creek Side killings.