On a quiet Friday morning in Anguilla, the serene beauty of the West End was shattered by a violent act that claimed the life of 31-year-old Rashe Hodge, a resident of The Farrington. Around 11:30 a.m. on May 9, 2025, the Royal Anguilla Police Force received a distressing call reporting a person lying motionless on a roadway. Officers and emergency medical personnel rushed to the scene, where they found Hodge, who had succumbed to gunshot wounds. The discovery of several spent shell casings confirmed the grim reality: Anguilla had recorded its sixth homicide of 2025, a stark reminder of the rising tide of gun violence gripping the island.
The police have classified the incident as a homicide and launched a comprehensive investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Hodge’s death. Authorities are combing through evidence and appealing to the public for assistance. They are urging anyone who witnessed the event, possesses dashcam footage, or has even the smallest piece of information to come forward. The Royal Anguilla Police Force has emphasized that no detail is too minor, as it could prove pivotal in bringing justice for Hodge and his grieving family. The community, still reeling from the loss, is being asked to unite in support of the investigation, with anonymous reporting options available through a secure online platform to encourage cooperation.
This tragedy marks the second shooting in Anguilla within a week, heightening fears among residents of the typically peaceful Caribbean island. Just days earlier, on Tuesday, May 6, a shooting at the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal left another individual in critical condition, clinging to life in a hospital. The victim’s identity and current status remain closely guarded as investigations continue. The proximity of these incidents, both in time and geography, has sparked concern about a potential escalation of violence, prompting calls for stronger community and law enforcement collaboration to curb the growing threat.
Anguilla, known for its pristine beaches and tight-knit community, has faced an alarming surge in violent crime in recent years. In 2024, the island recorded six homicides, with only one resulting in charges, a statistic that underscores the challenges faced by the Royal Anguilla Police Force in securing convictions. The year 2023 saw five homicides, similarly with just one case leading to charges. The police have attributed the low charge rate to the complex nature of these cases, often requiring meticulous evidence-gathering and public cooperation. Acting Commissioner of Police Haslyn Patterson has previously highlighted the need for a community-driven response, urging families to address gang-related activities among young people and reinforcing the police’s commitment to restoring safety.
The loss of Rashe Hodge has left a void in The Farrington, where he was known as a vibrant member of the community. Friends and neighbors have expressed shock and sorrow, grappling with the senselessness of his death. As the investigation unfolds, the Royal Anguilla Police Force is intensifying patrols and leveraging support from regional partners to enhance security measures. Temporary CCTV installations and increased police presence are planned for upcoming events, signaling a proactive approach to preventing further violence.
For now, Anguilla mourns yet another life cut short, and the call for justice grows louder. The police continue to seek answers, hoping that the community’s cooperation will help bring closure to Hodge’s family and stem the tide of gun violence threatening the island’s peace. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police directly or use the anonymous reporting system to aid in the pursuit of justice.