Bishop John I. Cline has stated that better ways of resolving conflicts need to be found following the most recent gun-related death in the Virgin Islands. Photo: Facebook

Devorn H. Furlonge, 28, was fatally shot outside his workplace in Purcell Estate on the morning of December 17, 2025. Photo: Team of Reporters

During a Facebook live video on his Facebook page, Bishop Cline expressed season's greetings to his friends and followers, asking them to remember that the reason for the season is to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

However, he continued by extending condolences following the shooting death of Devorn H. Furlonge, 28, in Purcell Estate that morning. 

“It is unfortunate this morning, during this celebratory season, we wake up to the news that another one of our young men have been shot down in the streets, and my heart goes out to the family and friends that have lost a loved one.”

We are better than this 

Furlonge was shot near his workplace in Purcell Estate and was pronounced dead on the scene. Police are actively investigating the incident. 

Bishop Cline added, “We are better than this. We can find a better way to resolve conflicts than killing each other. We can find a better way.”

He added that his prayer for the Virgin Islanders is that “we will find it in our hearts to seek the Lord while he may be found and call upon him while he is near.”