According to the RVIPF, the fugitives were discovered missing shortly after 9 p.m. on Saturday, prompting a coordinated search effort across the Territory involving multiple law enforcement agencies. Authorities have not yet disclosed how the escape occurred, but an internal investigation is underway.

Police described Almestica, 37, as approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, brown-skinned, with a muscular build and braided hair. He was serving time for multiple firearm and drug-related offences, including 11 counts of keeping an unlicensed firearm and eight counts of unlawful possession of ammunition. Almestica previously escaped custody in 2017 following Hurricane Irma and was recaptured in December 2021.

Burgos, 27, is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, slim, with locs and a brown complexion. He was on remand facing several serious charges, including conspiracy to murder, and drugs and firearm offences. Burgos was charged in connection with the December 2022 killing of Kadeem Jimenez in East End, Tortola, and appeared before Senior Magistrate Tamia N. Richards on Feb. 23, 2023, where he was remanded pending trial.

The RVIPF has urged residents not to confront or assist either man and to report any sightings immediately. Information can be shared with the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or 368-9593, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 284-800-8477 from overseas.

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According to police reports, the shooting occurred late Sunday evening in the Purcell Estate area. The injured man turned up at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital in a bullet riddled car. No arrests have been made as investigations continue.

The NSC, chaired by Governor Daniel Pruce, convened a special meeting Monday afternoon October 27 in response to the prison breakout, during which two U.S. Virgin Islands nationals — Jose Almestica and John Burgos — were discovered missing.

During the meeting, the Council received briefings from Superintendent of Prison Jay Kendall and Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool on the ongoing investigation and manhunt for the escapees.

Authorities outlined several immediate actions to strengthen security at the prison, increase police visibility across the Territory, and bolster inter-agency coordination. Regional and international law enforcement partners are also assisting in the search for the two fugitives.

While condemning the Purcell Estate shooting, the NSC emphasized that the incident is not connected to the prison escape and urged the public to remain calm and cooperative with police.

Residents are reminded to stay vigilant, secure their homes and vehicles, and report any information that may assist in the ongoing investigations.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force directly, call Crime Stoppers, or use the confidential hotline at 800-8477 (TIPS), 800-847-8477, or 368-9339.

The National Security Council is chaired by the Governor and includes the Premier, the Minister for Communications and Works, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner of Police, with the Cabinet Secretary serving as facilitator.

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