Crime/Police
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 25-Year-Old Julio Rivera of Purcell Estate
Julio Rivera, a 25-year-old resident of Purcell Estate, became the latest victim of gun violence after he was shot dead early Monday morning in Road Town, Tortola.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed his identity this morning, and have initiated an investigation, into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
His body was discovered along De Castro Street Tortola, commonly called Village Cay Parking lot, located opposite that of the National Bank of the Virgin Islands with multiple gunshot wounds. Rivera was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sources close to the incident tell JTV that the man had just approached his vehicle when an unsuspecting person made the fatal attack shooting him multiple times in his vehicle. He is said to have been in the company of another person at the time who managed to dodge bullets escaping serious injury.
A video gone viral shows the victim gasping, lying face down on the ground with several persons screaming for help in Spanish.
The RVIPF has also reached out to the public, urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. They have established a confidential channel for reporting information through the Crime Stoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS). For those residing overseas, they can call 1-284-800-8477. Additionally, the RVIPF Intelligence Unit can be contacted at 368-9339. All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, ensuring the safety and protection of those who step forward.
The loss of Julio Rivera has left an indelible mark on the Purcell Estate community, where he was known and loved by many. As the RVIPF’s investigation progresses, residents are united in their hope that justice will prevail and that those responsible for this senseless act will be held accountable.
Crime/Police
Multiple Arrests Made for Offenses Ranging from Criminal Damage to Immigration Violations
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has reported a series of arrests across the territory, highlighting a diverse range of criminal charges as law enforcement continues to crack down on illegal activities.
Tyler Harrigan, 26, of North Sound, Virgin Gorda, was charged with criminal damage, armed with an offensive weapon, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Authorities have not disclosed specific details of the incident leading to the charges.
In a separate case, Kelvin Eleuthere, 27, of Soper’s Hole, West End, was arrested on November 15 and charged with harboring a person, a serious offense under local law.
Also on November 15, Shamar John, 47, was charged for overstaying his landing permit, a violation of immigration regulations.
Meanwhile, on November 11, Kelliel Mala, 26, of the US Virgin Islands, was charged with disorderly conduct following an altercation.
Additionally, a 12-year-old minor was charged with indecent language on November 22.
Each of the accused individuals is scheduled to face court proceedings in the coming months.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with various assault incidents, including attacks on civilians and law enforcement officers.
On November 1, Julian Peters of Free Bottom was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was granted bail of $5,000 and is scheduled to appear in court on December 17. Later in the month, on November 29, police arrested Tresley Chewitt, 41, of Windy Hill, Virgin Gorda, for a separate assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Chewitt was granted bail of $10,000 and will appear in court on January 20, 2025.
In incidents involving law enforcement, Ernest Williams, 31, of Virgin Gorda, and Shem Letteen, 53, of East End, were both arrested on November 23 for assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and obstruction. Both men were granted bail of $3,000 and are expected to appear in court on January 16, 2025.
Authorities continue to encourage the public to cooperate with investigations and report any incidents of violence or threats to public safety.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with firearm and explosives offenses in a series of incidents spanning November.
On November 29, officers arrested Luiz Guerra Bethelmy, 45, of Great Mountain, and Dania Livari Castello. Both face charges of keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
Earlier in the month, on November 17, police apprehended 20-year-old Daniel Maduro of Long Bush. Maduro was charged with carrying a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
In a separate incident on November 15, authorities arrested Richard Baronville, 32, of Long Bush, and Kahlim Smith, 24, of Nottingham Estate. Both men face charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.
Most recently, on November 30, police charged Keanus Smart, 18, of Free Bottom, with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offense and unlawful possession of explosives.
The RVIPF is urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity.
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