The gunshots first heard at about 9:10 pm, rattled Frederiksted, with persons who heard them stating that the noise sounded like a war zone. Photo: VI Consortium

USVIPD Public Information, Officer Glen Dratte has confirmed this to The Consortium, however, the story is developing and the condition of at least three of the four other victims was unknown at the time of publication. 

Gunshots rattled

The gunshots first heard at about 9:10 pm, rattled Frederiksted, with persons who heard them stating that the noise sounded like a war zone.

Mr Dratte said some individuals were gathered at the market when suspects approached and opened fire. A shootout then ensued, leaving two persons dead and four injured. Two victims were transported to the Juan F. Luis Hospital (J.F.L.) by private vehicle, and four others were transported via ambulance.

According to USVIPD Commissioner Delroy Richards, the incident could be retaliatory in nature, “there is something that’s pointing in that direction based on the information we have so far,” he said.

The commissioner described the incident as active and developing. He said USVIPD officers were able to track the suspects to the Mahogany Road area in Frederiksted, where a vehicle previously reported stolen was discovered, “we are actively conducting a search in the area,” the commissioner said.

J.F.L.’s emergency room was said to be a chaotic scene as victims of the shooting were admitted for emergency care. In the lobby area, family members waited to learn of their loved one's condition, making for a tense and anxious scene, according to a person in the emergency room who requested anonymity.

The names of the deceased were being withheld pending next of kin notification. Though the case is developing, the USVIPD is following all leads.