ST. CROIX — The V.I. Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Bureau is investigating a fatal shooting that took place on Friday, December 13. The incident, which occurred near the basketball court in the DeChabert Housing Community in Richmond, resulted in the death of a male victim and marked the 42nd homicide in the U.S. Virgin Islands this year.

According to the VIPD, at 11:57 a.m., a ShotSpotter alert registered seven rounds of gunfire in the area. Moments later, a 911 call reported that a male had been shot. VIPD Director of Communications Glen Dratte said that officers arrived at the scene and found the victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was rushed to the hospital by ambulance but later succumbed to his injuries.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim had been driving past the basketball court when he was stopped by the suspect. The assailant reportedly opened the vehicle’s door and fired multiple shots at the victim. The motive for the attack is still unclear, and the investigation remains active.

This incident brings the total number of homicides in the territory to 42 for 2024. Of these, 22 occurred on St. Thomas and 20 on St. Croix.

The victim's identity is being withheld pending next of kin notification.

The VIPD is urging the public to assist with any information that may help bring the perpetrator to justice. Anyone with information is asked to contact the CIB at 340-778-2211, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or call 911 directly.