Nation Mourns as Tributes and Calls for Justice Pour in for Nine-Year-Old Chantel Crump

The tragic death of nine-year-old Chantel Crump has sent shockwaves across Antigua and Barbuda, sparking widespread grief, tributes, and demands for justice. Political leaders, community organizations, and religious institutions have joined in mourning, offering condolences to her family and calling for accountability.

The South Leeward Conference of Seventh-day Adventists expressed profound sorrow over Chantel’s murder in an official statement.

“We are appalled and disgusted by the senseless and brutal abduction and murder of an innocent infant. In some ways, this is a reflection of the level of perilous times to which we have sadly come,” the statement read.

The church, which observed Global Youth Day on Saturday, emphasized the importance of community support and prayer during this difficult time.

“We will call upon God to intervene in the crime and to help our people live godly lives,” wrote Dr. Carson L. Greene, President of the South Leeward Conference. He assured the family that the church stands ready to provide grief counseling and any necessary support.

St. John’s Rural West MP Richard Lewis shared his devastation, recalling how the news shook him awake.

“I was frightened out of my sleep to the devastating news that Chantel Crump’s body was found. I couldn’t go back to sleep. As a father and a community member, I am deeply hurt, still trying to gather myself,” he stated.

He commended the community and law enforcement for their swift action while extending condolences.

“My condolences to Everett and Marsha and the rest of the family. We mourn with you—your loss is our loss,” he added.

Michael Freeland called for immediate justice in an emotional message.

“Our hearts are shattered by the devastating news. What began as a desperate search has ended in unimaginable grief for her family and all who held onto hope for her safe return.”

Freeland declared that there is “no place in this world for such cruelty,” urging the public to stand behind Chantel’s family during this time of mourning.

Senator Michael Joseph also expressed sorrow and underscored the deep impact of Chantel’s loss.

“As a nation, we came together in these painful days to show our compassion, strength, and unity. Individuals mobilized search efforts, and the police left no stone unturned,” he said.

Joseph acknowledged Chantel’s bright spirit and the hole her absence leaves in the community.

“Chantel was special to her family, her friends, her school, and her community. Today, the people of St. John’s Rural West join the entire nation in mourning her untimely and tragic passing,” he said.

On behalf of the ABLP St. John’s Rural West Branch, he extended condolences and pledged continued support for the grieving family.

“We will miss Chantel cheering for us as one of our Labour Day cheerleaders,” he added.

Entertainment group One World also released a statement, describing Chantel as a “bright and beautiful soul taken far too soon.”

“We grieve not just for Chantel but for the innocence stolen and left behind. No child should ever have to face harm, and we must come together to protect our most vulnerable,” the release read.

They called on the community to ensure that Chantel’s memory is honored through action, stating, “May her light forever shine in our hearts, and may we honor her memory by ensuring that no family endures such a tragedy again.”

As the investigation continues, there is mounting pressure for justice. Activists, community members, and leaders have demanded full accountability for those responsible for Chantel’s death.

The nation stands united in grief, with an outpouring of love and support for Chantel’s family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

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