Local News
Coast Guard and VISAR Coordinate Successful Rescue Operation near BVI
Three individuals were rescued from a distressed catamaran near the British Virgin Islands in a coordinated effort between the Coast Guard and Virgin Islands Search and Rescue.
The rescue operation occurred early Thursday morning, March 7, when the 33-foot vessel, known as the Quartz, ran aground on rocks near Horseshoe Reef, approximately six nautical miles southeast of Anegada.
As the Quartz began taking on water, its occupants issued a Mayday distress call around 4:25 a.m.
Simultaneously, the vessel’s Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) transmitted a signal, which was promptly received by watchstanders at Sector San Juan.
This alert prompted the Coast Guard to deploy a 33-foot Special Purpose Craft – Law Enforcement vessel from Boat Forces Unit St. Thomas and an MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Borinquen to the scene.
Virgin Islands Search and Rescue mobilized one of its marine units to assist the distressed boaters. The team successfully located the individuals who had abandoned the Quartz and boarded the catamaran’s dinghy.
Following the rescue, the boaters were safely transported to Tortola without any serious injuries or medical emergencies.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Victor Rodriguez Laboy, the operations unit controller for the incident, emphasized the importance of the Quartz’s registered EPIRB with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Laboy credited this proactive measure for expediting the search and rescue response, highlighting the critical role of safety protocols in maritime navigation.”
These adjustments help clarify some details and ensure consistency in terminology. Overall, your story effectively communicates the key information about the rescue operation.
Sourced: VI Consortium.
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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