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.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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