In Santiago, Dominican Republic, a tragic incident on September 10 has left five individuals dead following an alleged confrontation with a police patrol. Over two weeks later, the investigation remains sluggish, fueling anxiety and frustration among the victims’ families. The National Police and the Santiago Prosecutor’s Office have yet to release an official report, leaving the public in the dark about the circumstances that led to the fatal exchange of gunfire. Relatives of the deceased have voiced their exasperation over the lack of transparency, urging authorities to provide clarity. ‘We need a clear explanation, not just rumors,’ said one family member, who chose to remain anonymous. Civil society groups and human rights advocates have echoed these demands, calling for a transparent and independent investigation to ensure accountability and prevent impunity. The victims, identified as Edward Bernardo Peña Rodríguez, Carlos Enrique Guzmán Navarro (alias Charly Chasc), José Vladimir Valerio Estévez, Elvis Antonio Martínez Rodríguez, and Julio Alberto Gómez, all succumbed to their injuries at the José María Cabral y Báez Hospital. Vladimir Valerio, a barber, was reportedly serving a client and preparing to go out for a meal when the shooting occurred. His partner, Gabriela, defended his character, stating, ‘He wasn’t a criminal. If they have evidence, let them present it. He was just working hard for his dreams.’ The family is determined to clear Vladimir’s name and seek justice for what they perceive as excessive use of force by the police. Gabriela Mercedes Espinal Estévez, Vladimir’s sister, along with other relatives, has been visiting the site of the shooting daily, holding banners that demand justice and honor their loved ones. Despite the ongoing investigation, both the Santiago Police and the prosecutor’s office have maintained a tight-lipped stance, only confirming that the preliminary phase of the investigation has concluded. An alleged police officer was also injured during the incident, which took place in front of a barbershop on Olímpica Avenue in the La Barranquita sector of Santiago province.
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23% of vehicles in the country are registered in the name of women.
In the Dominican Republic, a significant shift in vehicle ownership is emerging, with women increasingly taking the wheel on smaller roads, while men continue to dominate the main thoroughfares. According to recent data from the General Directorate of Internal Revenue (DGII) and the National Statistics Office (ONE), women now account for 23% of registered vehicles, a notable increase in a traditionally male-dominated sector. The data, updated to 2024, reveals that women own 432,256 motorcycles, 313,113 automobiles, 244,943 Jeeps, 19,410 buses, and 46,648 vehicles in other categories. The eastern provinces of Hato Mayor (28.7%), La Altagracia (28.1%), and El Seibo (27.3%), along with Peravia (27.7%) and Samaná (27.2%), show the highest percentages of female vehicle owners. In contrast, men still hold the majority, with 77% of vehicles registered in their names, including 1,894,849 motorcycles, 712,256 cars, 416,429 Jeeps, 79,229 buses, and 339,853 other vehicles. The 2024 vehicle fleet totaled 6,194,052 units, marking a 384,916 increase from 2023. Motorcycles dominate the fleet at 57.0%, followed by automobiles (18.7%), Jeeps (11.9%), and cargo vehicles, buses, and other categories (12.4%). Color preferences for cars lean towards white (23.7%), gray (22.9%), and blue (12.6%), while Jeeps favor white (28.6%), gray (20.8%), and black (17.4%). The year 2024 also saw a 40% rise in electric vehicle imports, with 6,640 units, and a 33% increase in hybrid vehicle imports, totaling 3,442 units. This data underscores a growing trend of women’s empowerment in transportation and a shift towards more sustainable vehicle choices in the Dominican Republic.
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Celebrating service, flavour and festivity at Hilton’s ‘Beyond the Banquet’
On Friday evening, Hilton Barbados Resort transformed the traditional hotel experience into an immersive showcase of its offerings during the ‘Beyond the Banquet’ event. From the moment guests stepped inside, it was evident that the night was more than just a culinary affair. The lobby was alive with the soothing melodies of saxophonist Zukeli Inniss, while the hotel’s hospitality team greeted attendees with warm smiles and trays of exquisite bites. The event was a sensory journey, highlighting the resort’s commitment to exceptional service and ambiance. Guests were treated to a variety of culinary delights, including perfectly grilled skewered shrimp, succulent Bajan-style pigtails, and refreshing snow cones. The mixology team kept the cocktails flowing, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. Inside the main banquet area, Executive Chef José Gutiérrez and Chef Banquets David Brome set the tone for the festive season with Christmas music and enchanting lighting. The evening’s host, Teresa Nicholls, Director of Catering & Events, kept the atmosphere lively, while the carving station offered a selection of mouthwatering meats paired with delectable sides. A tribute to Oistins featured seasoned fish alongside creamy macaroni pie, while a dedicated dessert station overflowed with sweet indulgences. Bea Dottin, Assistant Marketing Manager, explained the event’s purpose: ‘Beyond the Banquet is our way of showcasing our revamped banquet menus and holiday offerings, giving guests a taste of what to expect when hosting events with us.’ Annmarie Thompson, Director of Sales and Marketing, expressed gratitude to loyal clients, celebrating recent milestones such as the property’s 20th anniversary and accolades like ‘Great Place to Work’ and ‘Best Business’ by BCCI. The event encapsulated the essence of Hilton Barbados’s top-tier service and hospitality.
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High Surf Advisory Issued for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts and BVI
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a high surf advisory for several northeastern Caribbean islands, including Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, and the British Virgin Islands. The advisory, issued on Saturday morning, warns of hazardous swells moving into the region, with waves expected to reach heights of 6 to 10 feet. These conditions pose significant risks, including rip currents, beach erosion, and localized coastal flooding. The threat level has been classified as moderate, with the potential for substantial impacts on affected areas. The timing of the swells varies across the islands. Barbuda is expected to experience the worst conditions from Saturday afternoon until midnight, while Anguilla will be impacted through the early hours of Sunday. St. Kitts faces high surf from Saturday night into midnight, and the British Virgin Islands will be affected from Saturday evening through late Sunday. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution, advising against swimming on exposed beaches and recommending the use of lifeguarded or sheltered southern beaches. They also warned against venturing onto rocks or jetties, as strong currents could sweep people away. The advisory provided safety tips for those caught in rip currents, emphasizing the importance of staying calm, floating, and swimming parallel to the shore until free. The meteorological service encouraged the public to monitor further updates on its official website and social media channels.
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Hurricane Humberto Passes Safely North of Antigua
Hurricane Humberto, a formidable Category 4 storm with sustained winds nearing 145 mph, has safely bypassed Antigua and Barbuda, maintaining a distance of over 350 miles north of the twin-island nation. While the hurricane’s direct impact has been avoided, its influence has disrupted local wind patterns, driving the heat index to a sweltering 40°C (104°F). Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have urged residents to remain vigilant, stay cool, and monitor official advisories as the hurricane season persists.
Meanwhile, attention is shifting to Tropical Depression Nine, which is currently developing near the Bahamas. As of 2 p.m. EDT Saturday, the National Hurricane Center reported the system’s location approximately 195 miles northwest of eastern Cuba and 120 miles south-southwest of the central Bahamas. With maximum sustained winds of 35 mph and a northwestward movement at 6 mph, the depression poses a growing concern. Tropical storm warnings are now in effect for parts of the central and northwestern Bahamas, while a watch has been issued for sections of Florida’s east coast. Heavy rainfall continues to affect eastern Cuba and the Bahamas, and U.S. Air Force hurricane hunters are en route to assess the system.
As the Atlantic hurricane season remains active, residents across the region are advised to stay informed and prepared for potential weather disruptions.
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Youth leader urges unity, consistent support at parade
The Kensington Oval in Barbados was alive with energy and vibrancy on Friday evening as the National Youth Parade showcased the talents and spirit of the nation’s youth. Featuring dynamic performances from the Barbados Fire Cadets, Barbados YouthAdvance Corps, Girl Guides, and other organizations, the event celebrated the resilience and determination of young Barbadians. Amid the festivities, Caleb Brathwaite, President of the Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC), delivered a poignant address, urging leaders and stakeholders to deepen their commitment to supporting the younger generation.
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LIVE NOW: Opening of Independence Parade 2025
In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, user engagement continues to shape the way content is consumed and shared. Recent observations highlight a surge in sharing behaviors across platforms, with users increasingly utilizing features like ‘Share,’ ‘Tweet,’ ‘Pin,’ and ‘Related’ to amplify their digital presence. These actions not only reflect individual preferences but also contribute to the broader dissemination of information. The rise in such engagement tactics underscores the growing importance of social media as a tool for communication and influence. As platforms evolve, understanding these trends becomes crucial for both users and content creators aiming to maximize their reach and impact.
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WEATHER (12:00 PM, Sept 27): Isolated bursts of showers and thunderstorms possible this afternoon
A weak rain band associated with Hurricane Humberto is forecasted to impact the islands north of Dominica within the next 24 hours, with potential spillover effects extending southwards towards Dominica today. The combination of light winds and daytime heating is likely to spark isolated moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms, particularly during the afternoon hours. Residents in regions susceptible to flooding, landslides, and falling rocks, especially in the northern areas, are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Additionally, a slight dust haze is expected to become noticeable this afternoon. Marine conditions will range from slight to moderate, with waves reaching up to 3 feet along the west coast and increasing to nearly 7 feet along the east coast. Northerly ground swells generated by Hurricane Humberto are anticipated to affect western, northern, and eastern coastal waters, prompting a High Surf Advisory. Small-craft operators and sea-bathers are advised to exercise extreme caution due to these conditions.
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Dominican athletes to represent at Guadeloupe 5K Championship
Following their triumphant performance at the Dominica Athletics Association (DAA) 5km road race in Portsmouth, athletes Curvin Leatham and Raedian Felix are gearing up to represent Dominica in the final of the Challenge du Conseil Départemental de la Guadeloupe. This certified 5km road race, which doubles as the official Guadeloupe Championships and a qualifying event, is scheduled for Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. in Pointe-à-Pitre. The duo will be accompanied by their coach and manager, Cedric Harris, who will also attend a coaching seminar on Saturday, September 27, at 2:00 p.m. at the Rémy Nainsouta Center. The seminar will delve into running disciplines such as middle-distance and trail, with translation services provided for international attendees. The Guadeloupean Athletics League has offered comprehensive logistical support to the Dominican delegation, including accommodation, meals, and transportation. The invitation was formally extended by Elodie Cairo, President of the Ligue Guadeloupéenne d’Athlétisme. Leatham and Felix secured their spots in the Guadeloupe event after clinching the top positions in last weekend’s DAA 5km race in Portsmouth.
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BDF, Ross University forge strategic medical partnership
The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) has taken a significant stride in enhancing its medical capabilities by entering into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM). This landmark agreement aims to bolster training, capacity-building, and the overall medical experience for BDF personnel. The signing ceremony featured key representatives from both institutions, including Brigadier Carlos Lovell, BDF’s chief of staff; Alejandro Carrasco, interim dean of RUSM; and Dr. Rhonda McIntyre, senior associate dean for external affairs at RUSM. Carrasco highlighted the partnership as a pivotal move in RUSM’s mission to strengthen ties with the BDF, offering its students unparalleled learning opportunities. Brigadier Lovell expressed the BDF’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the collaboration’s potential to elevate medical standards for both practitioners and beneficiaries. He reiterated the BDF’s dual role as a military institution and a dedicated community partner, stating, ‘This partnership underscores our commitment to enhancing the health and wellness of our personnel.’ The collaboration is expected to deliver long-term benefits, including advanced clinical training, improved medical service delivery, and enhanced inter-institutional cooperation, thereby reinforcing the BDF’s mission readiness and holistic support for its members.