Mugshot of 32-year-old Jose Garcia Jr. Photo Credit: THE VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE DEPARTMENT
ST. THOMAS — The V.I. Police Department has taken a second suspect into custody in connection with an assault that occurred on February 10 in the vicinity of Hospital Ground.
The VIPD's Criminal Investigation Bureau arrested 32-year-old Jose Garcia Jr., charging him with third-degree assault, use of a dangerous weapon during the commission of a crime, and disturbance of the peace. His bail was set at $25,000.
According to the police report, the incident began when the victim and Jose Garcia Sr. became involved in an altercation. During the dispute, Garcia Sr. allegedly made death threats toward the victim and attempted to strike him with a glass bottle. Shortly thereafter, Garcia Sr. reportedly made a phone call to his son, Jose Garcia Jr., who soon arrived at the scene armed with a long knife.
Eyewitness accounts and video surveillance confirmed that Garcia Jr. wielded the knife and charged at the victim. During questioning, Garcia Jr. admitted to possessing the knife, stating that he used it to intimidate the victim.
Authorities continue to investigate the case and encourage anyone with additional information to come forward. Individuals with knowledge of the incident can contact 911, Detective Y. LoBlack, the Criminal Investigation Bureau, or the Office of the Police Chief at (340) 774-2211. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers USVI at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), crimestoppersvi.org, or p3tips.com.
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