For the first time in a decade, Barbados experienced a September without a single gun-related homicide, according to the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit. This unprecedented lull in deadly shootings, which analysts attribute to heightened police patrols, was short-lived as murders surged again in October. Senior Research Analyst Kirt Goodridge highlighted the significance of this development in an interview with Barbados TODAY, noting that September is traditionally a quiet month for homicides, averaging three per year over the past decade. However, this year marked a stark departure from the norm, with zero reported gun deaths in September. Goodridge suggested that increased police presence in high-risk neighborhoods may have contributed to this temporary decline, though he cautioned that such measures are not sustainable in the long term. Official statistics reveal a fluctuating trend in gun-related deaths over the years, with 2025 recording 40 fatal shootings so far, compared to 34 in 2024. The Barbados Police Service had intensified surveillance in June, labeling the rise in gun violence as ‘domestic terrorism’ and vowing to dismantle criminal networks. Despite the September success, October saw a rise in major crimes, including murder, kidnapping, and robbery. Acting Commissioner of Police Erwin Boyce acknowledged a marginal 2% decrease in overall crime but expressed concern over the 13% year-on-year increase in major offenses. While sex-related and property crimes saw slight declines, the overall crime picture remains mixed, underscoring the need for continued focus on reducing violent crime.