Crime/Police
UPDATED: Former murder accused Yan Edwards killed
By MERRICK ANDREWS
Online News Editor
A former murder accused has been identified as the victim of Monday’s fatal shooting at a bar in Parham Town, East End on Tortola, according to reliable sources.
Though the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force have not officially identified the victim, JTV News have received confirmation from sources, including a relative of the deceased, Yan Edwards, that he was shot dead Monday evening, after 6 p.m.
Edwards and Allen Baptiste were both sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in 2013 for the death of Keri Harrigan, who was shot to death in Long Look on March 16, 2011.
However, in 2018, Court of Appeal judges threw out the convictions of both men and ordered a retrial.
Edwards is no stranger to the law.
In fact, it was on December 2, 2013 that Edwards along with Rodney Simmonds Jr. were sentenced to seven years and five years, respectively, after they had been found guilty of conspiring to murder Cornel Melbourne Francis.
At the time, Edwards was serving the life sentence for Harrigan’s murder – a conviction which was eventually squashed.
Edwards reportedly was released on bail last year after trying many times to obtain freedom.
Videos and photos of Edwards’ body, lying in a pool of blood in front the bar, have been circulating on social media.
He was reportedly shot multiple times after a vehicle pulled up at the popular bar.
Crime/Police
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Crime/Police
Spike in East End Burglaries Prompts RVIPF to Urge Heightened Security
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is urging residents and business owners in East End, Tortola, to tighten security in light of a recent surge in burglaries plaguing the area. Over the past week, more than seven incidents have been reported, with hotspots including the neighborhoods of Greenland and Long Look.
The RVIPF is responding to this concerning trend by increasing patrols and advising the public to proactively secure their properties. Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasized the value of functional security systems, particularly CCTV cameras, as both deterrents and critical tools for investigators.
Protective Measures Suggested by RVIPF
To prevent further incidents and aid in investigations, the RVIPF recommends a series of crime prevention strategies:
- Install and Maintain CCTV Systems: Ensure cameras are positioned to cover entry points and remain operational.
- Lock All Entry Points: Secure doors and windows, especially at night or when properties are vacant.
- Utilize Exterior Lighting: Motion-activated lights can deter intruders by increasing visibility.
- Establish Neighborhood Watch Networks: Keep neighbors informed and report any suspicious activity to the RVIPF promptly.
“The safety of our communities is a priority,” said Acting Commissioner Vanterpool. “But we need the public’s partnership to address these crimes effectively. Functional CCTV systems, secure properties, and vigilant reporting can go a long way in deterring criminal activity.”
Additional patrols have been deployed in the Eastern districts, and detectives are actively investigating the recent burglaries. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).
Crime/Police
Attempted Armed Robbery at Matcha’s Bar and Grill Foiled on Fort Hill
An attempted armed robbery at Matcha’s Bar and Grill on Fort Hill was thwarted this afternoon when the proprietor successfully evaded an armed assailant. The incident occurred around 4:00 PM on November 4, when a masked individual, reportedly carrying a high-powered weapon, approached the popular establishment with apparent intentions to rob it.
According to initial reports, the gunman was unable to carry out the robbery and left the premises empty-handed. No shots were fired, and there are no reports of injuries to the proprietor or any patrons.
Police are currently conducting an investigation. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has not yet released further details.
This story is developing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
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