Basseterre, St. Kitts The Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, has expressed profound sadness and extended heartfelt condolences following the tragic death of Sean John, an 18-year-old student of Washington Archibald High School (WAHS), who was fatally shot over the weekend.
In a statement released on Sunday, September 14, Dr. Hanley said he was “deeply saddened” by the loss of a promising young life and described the incident as a tragedy that has shaken not only the school community but the nation as a whole.
“This is a deeply distressing time for our education community,” Dr. Hanley stated. “To lose a student in such a manner is heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sean’s family, his classmates, his teachers, and everyone affected by this senseless act of violence.”
Dr. Hanley emphasized that the Ministry of Education is working closely with school officials to provide grief counseling and emotional support to students and staff at WAHS in the wake of the tragedy.
He called on the wider community to stand together in support of the grieving family and to reflect on the urgent need to protect young lives. “This is not just a school issue. This is a national concern. We must all recommit to fostering safer environments for our children, at school, at home, and in their communities,” the Minister added.
Dr. Hanley also pledged that the Ministry will continue to work in collaboration with law enforcement and community leaders to address youth violence and support preventative initiatives.
Sean John was found with a gunshot wound in his bedroom on the night of Saturday, September 13, and was later pronounced dead. Police have since confirmed that he was discovered by his mother. Investigations are ongoing.