BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — POLICE have arrested and charged Kirvin Morris of Haynes Smith Village, St. Kitts, and a 16-year-old male in connection with the fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Kaden Hanley earlier this month.
Both individuals were charged with the offence of murder on January 24, police confirmed.
The charges stem from an incident that occurred on January 2, 2026, during the Christmas–Carnival festivities, when Hanley was fatally stabbed following an altercation in Basseterre. His death sent shockwaves across the Federation and prompted law enforcement authorities to cancel the remaining Carnival activities. It marked the first homicide for 2026.
In a statement, police said officers responded to reports of a stabbing in the vicinity of Independence Square, Basseterre, between 8:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers found Hanley of Shadwell Estate suffering from a stab wound to the chest. He was transported to the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital by members of the Special Services Unit (SSU), where he later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at approximately 9:00 p.m.
Following the incident, Minister of Creative Economy Samal Duggins issued a statement expressing condolences and calling for unity and reflection.
“Carnival is meant to celebrate life, culture, and togetherness. Moments like this remind us of the fragility of life and the responsibility we share to look out for one another — in our celebrations and beyond,” Duggins said.
“Let us honour Kaden’s memory by choosing love over conflict, care over indifference, and togetherness over division. Hold your loved ones close, check in on one another — in our celebrations and beyond..”
