Teen dies days after stabbing in St. Vincent; ministers cite youth violence concerns

A 17-year-old Form 3 student at West St. George Secondary School has died following a stabbing incident in Arnos Vale on Friday.

Tafari Browne was discovered with multiple stab wounds and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, where he remained until his death on Monday, Education Minister Philip Jackson said on NICE Radio.

Jackson revealed that school officials had reported encountering troubling behaviour among some of Browne's peers in the aftermath of his death. The chief education officer informed him that whilst many students were grieving, others displayed what Jackson described as a concerning absence of compassion.

"This one really make me aware that the problem is much, much deeper than any of us probably imagine," Jackson told the radio station.

The minister said he had already spoken with Browne's grandmother and intended to reach out to his mother, who was in England. He extended condolences to the family, classmates, friends and school staff.

Ministry personnel and counsellors have been deployed to the school to assist the community. Jackson called for a comprehensive approach to youth violence, involving civil society, religious organisations, government bodies, schools and local communities. He stressed that schools should prioritise values education, conflict resolution, empathy, teamwork and community spirit.

Jackson also emphasised the need for safe outlets where young people can voice their concerns and called on adults to develop more effective ways of connecting with youth and offering them hope.

Youth Minister Kaschaka Cupid, who represents West St. George in Parliament, characterised Browne's death as "a heartbreaking tragedy" in a statement. He said the nation must prevent violence from becoming an accepted part of society and called for unified action.

"Government, families, schools, communities, and young people must work together to confront violence, promote peaceful conflict resolution, and protect our youth," Cupid said.

Cupid stressed that walking away from conflict, respectful communication and seeking assistance are signs of strength rather than weakness. He noted that since taking office in November, crime and violence have been a serious concern for him and his ministry.

Police have not yet issued a statement regarding the incident, and no arrests have been reported.