Premier Natalio Wheatley Sends Condolences To The Family Of Detective Paul France

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr Natalio Wheatley has sent his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Detective Paul France, who was this morning found dead in a submerged vehicle near the waterfront of the Queen Elizabeth II Park on Tortola.

Detective France, a British citizen and highly respected member of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), dedicated almost forty years of his life to serving and protecting communities here and in the United Kingdom.

His untimely passing has sent shockwaves throughout the territory.

Premier Wheatley, on behalf of the government and the people of the British Virgin Islands, offered his heartfelt sympathies to France’s family during this difficult time, adding that it is “an unfortunate situation, and something we would never like to see. Officers who are serving and keeping the BVI safe it certainly is tragic and on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands we send condolences to that officer’s family.

This morning, October 7,
s concerned passerby noticed tracks leading towards the Caribbean Sea, and upon closer examination found Detective France’s white Kia Soul submerged in the sea and called the RVIPF.

The Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service was also on the scene.

The officer was found unresponsive in the vehicle.

The RVIPF is investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Anyone with relevant information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit on 368-9339.