On January 19, at 11:40 p.m., the 911 Emergency Call Center received a report of shots fired at Manuel Bar in Contant. Officers traveled to the establishment and discovered several persons who appeared to have suffered gunshot wounds.
The investigation revealed that a vehicle drove up to the building and someone in the vehicle opened fire into the establishment, according to a press release from the Virgin Islands Police Department.
“An off-duty police officer inside the establishment was forced to protect himself and the other patrons by drawing his weapon and engaging the suspects,” according to the release. Four individuals (three males, one female) inside the establishment were injured.
The victims were transported to the Roy Lester Schneider Regional Medical Center via ambulance for medical attention. Another gunshot victim was discovered unresponsive in Upper Contant. Emergency Medical Technicians on the scene concluded that the victim, identified by next of kin as 41-year-old Henry Richards, Jr., had no vital signs.
St. Thomas/St. John/Water Island Chief of Police Barrington Thomas Sr. expressed frustration at those who use violence to resolve disputes. “We must find better ways to deal with issues, instead of resorting to gun violence,” Thomas said.
Detectives urge anyone who has information about this shooting to contact police by calling 911, the Major Crime Unit at (340) 714-5554 or (340) 714-5555, or Crime Stoppers USVI at (800) 222-8477, where your tip can earn you a reward.
