Crime scene at Four Winds Plaza in St. Thomas, USVI on Wed. July 10, 2024.
Last updated at 7:12 a.m. on Thursday, July 11, 2024.
ST. THOMAS — Two men were killed and two others injured in a shooting at Four Winds Plaza in St. Thomas on Wednesday night, the V.I. Police Department has confirmed to the Consortium. The VIPD said officers responded swiftly to the scene, but despite their efforts, the violence resulted in the loss of life and left the community in mourning.
According to the report, on Wednesday at approximately 9:33 p.m., multiple citizens contacted 911 to report several shots fired in the area of Four Winds Plaza, St. Thomas. Witnesses indicated that at least two individuals had been shot at the location.
Units from the VIPD and other law enforcement agencies responded swiftly to the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered two unresponsive black males lying in the plaza, both appearing to have suffered multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) arrived shortly after and checked the males for signs of life. At 11:53 p.m., the EMTs confirmed that neither individual had any vital signs. The deceased were later identified by next of kin as 29-year-old Lamar Richardson and 33-year-old Randy John Baptiste.
While at the scene, officers learned that two other males had been transported to Schneider Regional Medical Center for immediate medical attention due to gunshot wounds sustained during the incident at Four Winds Plaza.
“Our condolences go out to the family, friends, and loved ones who have been impacted by gun violence,” stated Police Chief Steven Phillip of the St. Thomas/St. John District. Chief Phillip expressed deep concern over the ongoing issue of violence in the community. “These senseless killings continue to be a huge problem in our communities. It's very disturbing; in these incidents, nobody wins, but the families of the victims lose.”
Chief Phillip emphasized the efforts being made to address violence in the community. “We are constantly researching effective violence reduction strategies to keep our communities safe. We are asking for your continued support in this fight against crime in our community. We will bring the perpetrators to justice."
The VIPD is urging persons with information about this incident to contact them at (340-774-2211) or the Criminal Investigation Unit’s Major Crimes Division at 340-642-8449. Additionally, tips can be reported to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (online here) or by calling 911.
