VIPD unit on the Melvin Evans Highway. Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTIUM
ST. CROIX — A shooting incident on Queen Street in Frederiksted late Saturday night left two men dead, the V.I. Police Department has announced.
According to VIPD Director of Communications Glen Dratte, multiple gunshots were detected by ShotSpotter technology at approximately 11:48 p.m. on Saturday, February 1. Upon arrival, officers found evidence of gunfire, including spent shell casings and several vehicles damaged by bullets.
A lifeless male victim was discovered seated on a chair near Yolanda’s Bar. He was identified at the scene by a next of kin as 53-year-old Juan Rexach-Ramos.
Shortly after officers responded to the scene, 911 operators received a report of a second victim who had been transported from the shooting location to Juan F. Luis Hospital’s emergency room. Despite efforts to save him, the victim succumbed to his injuries. He was identified by a next of kin as 28-year-old Daniym Heywood.
The VIPD’s Criminal Investigation Bureau has launched an active investigation into the deadly shooting. No further details regarding potential suspects or motives have been released at this time.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Individuals can contact the VIPD at 911, the Criminal Investigation Bureau, or Crime Stoppers USVI online here.
The police department has assured the public that all tips will remain confidential as they continue their efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
