Local News
High Travel Demand – American Airlines Increase Daily Flights From Miami To The BVI To Two
American Airlines has increased non-stop flights between Miami and Beef Island from once to twice daily starting December due to high travel demand to the British Virgin Islands.
A June 14 British Virgin Islands Airport Authority press statement said the flight increase announcement comes just two weeks after the official launch of the service on June 1 between Miami International Airport and Terrance B Lettsome International Airport.
BVIAA Managing Director Kurt Menal said “This latest development demonstrates a high level of confidence in the BVI as a top tourism destination which is in high demand. It also demonstrates confidence in the capabilities of the BVIAA to handle increased number of flights and greater passenger movements, and to provide quality service to travelers.”
Since the launch, American Airlines was “moved to schedule five additional flights for the month of June even before its inaugural flight took place,” the statement said, adding that “based on the airline’s initial schedule, AA’s direct service was projected to increase passenger movements at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport in 2023 by over 19,000 passengers. However, the latest announcement would see AA increase passenger movements by over 22,000 passengers.”
The increase in AA’s scheduled flights will have a further positive impact on the territory’s tourism recovery plan.
BVI remains a top Caribbean tourism destination with tens of thousands of annual visitors from across the world.
Crime/Police
One Arrested, Three Suspects at Large Following Attempted Home Invasion in Cocodella
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is actively searching for three suspects who fled after an attempted home invasion in Cocodella on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today, December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.
The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.
The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.
Crime/Police
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Crime/Police
South African Captain Charged With Manslaughter After Marine Accident Claims Life
A South African national was charged with manslaughter following a tragic marine collision that claimed the life of 39-year-old Stephen Cross Jr.
Lesley Joubert, 36, was taken into custody by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as part of their investigation into the incident. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail set at $120,000 in cash. Joubert is expected to return to court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.
The tragic event occurred on the evening of Friday, 22 November, near Saba Rock. Initial reports indicate that a 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) collided with a dinghy, causing severe injuries to Mr. Cross, a resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
Cross was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic before being transferred to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
As investigations continue, the authorities have urged members of the public with any information relevant to the case to come forward.
The RVIPF assured the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
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