Mohammed Salem was captured Tuesday afternoon after evading police.
ST. THOMAS — A manhunt on Tuesday ended in the capture of Mohammed Salem, following the early morning homicide of his father in the Lerkulund area of St. Thomas. The tragic event led to Salem being considered armed and dangerous, prompting immediate action by local law enforcement.
The incident initially triggered precautionary measures, including a lockdown at Sibily School, as officers scoured the area for Salem. The community was urged to report any sightings of him to the authorities, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) confirmed Salem's capture around 1:30 p.m. the same day, following a tense pursuit. VIPD Police Chief for the St. Thomas District, Steven Phillips, recounted the efforts to apprehend Salem, noting that he was spotted by citizens on the beach's rocks, which led to a coordinated response from both regular officers and specialized units.
The operation saw the use of drones to track Salem through difficult terrain and included a dramatic moment when he jumped into the water, trying to evade capture. It was the quick action of the VIPD's marine unit, supported by officers on a boat, that ultimately led to Salem's arrest. In an extraordinary effort, Police Commissioner Ray Martinez played a direct role in the underwater apprehension of the suspect.
The victim of the homicide was identified as 69-year-old Jamil Hakem Salem, who was stabbed to death. Reports indicate that the younger Salem had previous legal troubles, including an arrest for assaulting his father, and may suffer from mental health issues, though his exact diagnosis has not been made public.
As the investigation continues, further details are expected to emerge regarding the circumstances that led to this tragic outcome.
