Michael Weeks, Minister of National Security, is to hold an event aimed at addressing community violence.

The “retreat” gathering on September 15 and 16 comes after an upsurge in gun and knife murders across the island.

Bermuda recorded its seventh murder of the year on Saturday night when a 30-year-old man was stabbed to death during an altercation in a home on Astwood Walk, Warwick. A second man was injured and is in hospital.

The event will include church and community leaders, and experts in mental health issues and youth work.

Mr Weeks said: "This event will advance our national strategy to address the community violence problem.

“This upcoming retreat will build on the feedback received during the town hall meeting on community violence held on July 19 at the St Paul Centennial Hall, by engaging stakeholders who directly work with young people and who were not able to attend that meeting.

“Invitations will be sent shortly and we encourage invitees to save the date and make every effort to attend.

“We are reaching out to include helping organisations, charities, churches, government departments, mental health personnel, private sector personnel and sporting clubs.

“We want to hear from those who work with young people who are at risk of either joining gangs and, or participating in violent activity.

“These are community issues and the Government is determined to foster a community-based approach to tackle the root causes of violence in our community.”