VIPD officers search for third suspect following shootout and high-speed chase on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023. Photo Credit: THE VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE DEPARTMENT
THOMAS — A high-intensity police pursuit unfolded Thursday afternoon in St. Thomas after VIPD officers responded to reports of a recklessly driven vehicle occupied by three masked men.
The incident, which started around 3:04 p.m. near Judy Gomez Highway in the Altona & Welgunst area, quickly escalated into a chase involving a stolen vehicle.
The VIPD was dispatched following a 911 Emergency Call Center alert about the vehicle's dangerous operation. The pursuit led to the Mafolie area, where the suspects were spotted driving the stolen vehicle. In a bid to evade capture, the suspects drove through a police checkpoint, causing damage to two vehicles, the VIPD told the Consortium.
The chase took a dangerous turn when shots were fired towards the pursuing officers in the vicinity of Louisenhoj Castle, according to Glen Dratte, VIPD Director of Communications. Shortly afterwards, a 911 call reported a male with a gunshot wound in a nearby yard. This individual, identified as one of the suspects, was detained by VIPD officers and transported to the Schneider Regional Medical Center for treatment.
The unfolding events led to the apprehension of a second suspect, who was also taken to the hospital for treatment. The VIPD was conducting an extensive search for a third suspect believed to be in the Hull Bay area.
Police described the situation as fluid and ongoing. Officers are urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or unusual activity in the area immediately by calling 911.
Further updates on this developing situation will be provided as more information becomes available.
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