Purcell Shooting Not Linked to Escape
The National Security Council says the Purcell Estate shooting is not connected to the recent escape from His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut. The council urged calm, pledged full support for the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force investigation, and set enhanced security and search measures following a special meeting on October 27.
The National Security Council (NSC) has confirmed that the shooting in Purcell Estate is not related to the recent prison break at His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, while urging residents to remain calm and to report any information to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).
In a press statement condemning the Purcell shooting, the NSC emphasised its strong support for the RVIPF’s ongoing investigation and asked the public to avoid approaching any escapees and to pass on tips to police rather than take action themselves. The NSC convened a special meeting on October 27, 2025, chaired by His Excellency the Governor, Mr Daniel Pruce.
The meeting followed the discovery that two inmates, José Almestica and John M. Burgos—both reported as residents of the US Virgin Islands—were missing from the prison roster. Council members described the escapes as a matter of deep concern and reviewed immediate actions to protect the community and secure the facility.
Attending the meeting were the Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Vincent O. Bertie; and Superintendent of Prisons Jay Kendall. Superintendent Kendall and Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool provided updates on the prison incident and the search operations currently under way.
Following discussions, the NSC agreed on several measures to bolster security. These include increasing police presence in key areas, improving inter-agency coordination across government departments, and intensifying the manhunt through close cooperation with regional and international law enforcement partners to ensure the safe recapture of the missing inmates.
The council also reiterated practical safety advice for residents: be aware of your surroundings, ensure homes and vehicles are securely locked, follow guidance from the RVIPF, and report suspicious activity to the authorities. The NSC specifically asked the public not to approach anyone suspected of being an escapee and to allow trained officers to manage the situation.
This clarification comes amid separate reporting of the Purcell Estate shooting in which a male sustained multiple gunshot wounds; authorities have stated that incident is being investigated independently of the prison escape. According to the NSC statement and reporting by Virgin Islands News Online, the council remains focused on public safety while supporting police efforts to resolve both matters.
Primary source: VINO