he Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed the identities of three men who were found deceased in separate incidents across the Territory between June 6 and June 9.

The first incident occurred on Friday, June 6, when the body of 47-year-old Vincent Warner of Free Bottom was recovered from the waters near Maria’s by the Sea in Road Town. Police said the body was retrieved shortly after 5 p.m. and was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.

“Investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are ongoing,” the RVIPF stated in a press release issued Tuesday.

In a second, unrelated incident on Virgin Gorda, authorities reported that the body of Jan Zettel Jr., a 31-year-old long-time resident of Nail Bay, was discovered on Sunday, June 8. According to the RVIPF, Zettel was last seen around midnight at Blue House Bar on Virgin Gorda. He was reported missing in the early hours of Sunday, prompting a coordinated search effort.

“His body was found shortly after 9 a.m. that morning,” police said. No further details regarding the cause of death have been released at this time.

The third incident involved a 71-year-old American visitor, Johnnie Hoffman, who was found unresponsive in the water on Monday, June 9. According to the RVIPF, Hoffman had been swimming with family members when the incident occurred.

He was rescued by the Virgin Islands Search and Rescue team (VISAR) and transported for medical treatment, but was later pronounced dead.

“The investigations into each of these deaths remain active, and we are working to determine the full circumstances,” the RVIPF said.

Police are urging members of the public who may have information relevant to any of the incidents to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at +1-284-368-9339 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (or +1-284-800-8477 from overseas).

“Our thoughts remain with the families and loved ones of these individuals during this time of loss,” the RVIPF added.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has reported a sharp rise in gun-related incidents in early 2025, with a disturbing increase in violent crime targeting public establishments. Among these crimes is the fatal shooting of Nyron Erickson, a West End resident, on May 10, a case currently under active investigation.

According to Deputy Commissioner Kendrick Davis, during a press conference held on May 16, the number of robberies involving firearms increased dramatically between January and April 2025 compared to the same period last year. “From January to April 2024, there were six robberies, three of which involved guns. In the same period this year, we have recorded 19 robberies, 17 of them involving firearms,” Davis stated during the briefing.

Police officials note that offenders appear to be targeting bars, pubs, and other establishments that handle cash and valuables. “Their interest seems to be focused on cash and jewelry worn by patrons,” Davis said.

The fatal shooting of Mr. Erickson marks one of two deadly firearm incidents in the territory this year. The first occurred on January 15, when Quentin Noel of Personal Estate was killed. In the case of Mr. Erickson, police have identified and issued a bulletin for a suspect, John Emmanuel, also known by aliases including Brent Danglade and “Small Brent.” He is wanted in connection with the May 10 shooting.

“We believe that, aside from being of interest to the investigation, this suspect poses an ongoing threat to public safety,” Deputy Commissioner Davis emphasised. Authorities are actively seeking public assistance in locating Mr. Emmanuel, who is believed to be in the territory.

The RVIPF has responded to the surge in gun violence by increasing patrols and implementing targeted operations. Since January, nine firearms and nearly 400 rounds of ammunition have been recovered, with several arrests made in connection with these incidents.

Deputy Commissioner Davis concluded by urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement. “If you see something, say something,” he advised. “Every bit of information is important and could be the key to solving these serious matters.”

The investigation into the shooting of Nyron Erickson remains ongoing. Authorities have not released further details to avoid compromising active inquiries.

For those with information, the police have provided several contact numbers, including an anonymous tip line through Crime Stoppers.

Contact information for tips:

• Intelligence Unit: 284-368-9339

• Crime Stoppers (anonymous): 808-477-TIPS or 284-800-877-8477

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