Eight Women Murdered in the Caribbean in Early 2025

A shadow of fear and grief hangs over Trinidad and Tobago as a spate of brutal murders targeting women has sent shockwaves through the nation. Within a mere two-month period, eight women, ranging in age from 34 to 65, have fallen victim to a horrifying surge in violence, their lives tragically cut short by a range of brutal acts, including home invasions, domestic disputes, and stray bullets. The frequency and savagery of these killings have left citizens reeling, demanding urgent action from authorities to stem the tide of violence and restore a sense of security to their communities.

The recent string of murders began on January 9th with the horrific double homicide of 60-year-old attorney Kumari Baksh and her husband, found bound and gagged in their home after a brutal invasion. Just days later, 34-year-old Onella Antonia Parks was gunned down on her way to work, a chilling reminder of the vulnerability women face in the escalating violence. The following week, a stray bullet claimed the life of 36-year-old mother of two, Sahrida Ali, caught in the crossfire of a police shootout with criminals.

The violence continued unabated. On January 26th, domestic violence reared its ugly head, claiming the life of 56-year-old Sunita Parbatee Ram, shot by her husband. Less than 24 hours later, 57-year-old Wendy Thomas was fatally shot in the chest following an argument with a man. The relentless killing spree continued with the murder of 39-year-old Chezerae Kidney-Ramdass, shot in her own apartment. Then, on February 16th, 65-year-old Quintin Marcano was tragically killed by a stray bullet at a friend’s birthday party. Most recently, 64-year-old Durpatee Chance was beaten and strangled during a home invasion, marking the eighth female victim in this horrifying two-month period.

The escalating violence against women has fueled widespread fear and outrage across the nation. Citizens are demanding immediate action from law enforcement and government officials to address the crisis and ensure the safety of women and all citizens. Many are calling for more effective policing strategies, tougher penalties for violent crimes, and a comprehensive approach to tackling the root causes of crime, including poverty, inequality, and the proliferation of illegal firearms.

Women’s rights advocates and community organizations are at the forefront of the calls for change. They are demanding stronger protective measures for women, including improved access to shelters and support services for victims of domestic violence. They are also advocating for greater awareness campaigns to educate the public about gender-based violence and challenge harmful societal norms that perpetuate it. Moreover, they emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive legislative reforms to strengthen laws protecting women and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their crimes.

The families of the victims are left to grapple with the unimaginable grief and loss. They are demanding justice for their loved ones, calling for thorough investigations and swift prosecutions of those responsible for these heinous acts. Their stories serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of violence and the urgent need for a collective effort to create a safer and more just society. The nation mourns their loss and stands in solidarity with their families, demanding an end to the senseless violence that has shattered so many lives.

The wave of violence against women in Trinidad and Tobago highlights a deeply troubling trend and underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and multifaceted response. Addressing the root causes of violence, strengthening law enforcement, improving the criminal justice system, empowering women, and fostering a culture of respect and equality are all crucial steps towards creating a society where women are safe and can live without fear. The eight lives tragically lost in such a short span of time serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of inaction and a call to action for all stakeholders to work together to end the violence and build a more secure and just future for all citizens.