RVIPF Probes Prison Escape, Purcell Shooting
Acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool says the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has stepped up operations across the territory after a shooting in Purcell Estate and the escape of two prisoners from His Majesty’s Prison. Investigators are probing possible links as a seriously injured man receives treatment and a manhunt for escapees Jose Almestica and John Burgos continues.
Acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool has confirmed an intensified, territory-wide police response after two related security incidents: the escape of two inmates from His Majesty’s Prison (HMP) and a shooting in Purcell Estate. Vanterpool said investigators are assessing whether the prison break, which occurred on Saturday evening, is connected to the shooting reported in Purcell Estate on Sunday night. “Investigations into this incident are ongoing, and our investigators are determining if and how the prison escape and the shooting incident event may be connected,” she said.
Officers who responded to the Purcell scene found spent shells, indicating a firearm had been discharged. A male of Spanish descent was transported in a vehicle showing gunshot damage to Dr D Orlando Smith Hospital. He remains under medical care in serious but stable condition. The two escapees have been identified as Jose Almestica and John Burgos.
Vanterpool warned the public that the men are considered armed and dangerous and urged residents not to approach them. “Do not approach them under any circumstances,” she said, noting that teams across the force have begun immediate investigations, including analysis of available footage from inside and around the prison and other locations.
As a precautionary measure, RVIPF has increased visible patrols in Purcell Estate, Postal Estate and neighbouring communities. Vanterpool said officers are positioned at strategic locations across the territory, including ports of entry and all possible areas of departure, and that the RVIPF Marine Unit is conducting ongoing coastal patrols.
Forensic officers are examining evidence recovered from the prison site, and authorities in the United States Virgin Islands have been notified as part of a regional effort to locate the escapees. Vanterpool urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, take basic security steps such as locking homes and vehicles, staying in well-lit areas, and reporting suspicious activity immediately. “Please be assured that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, the command team and I, as Acting Commissioner, are working tirelessly around the clock with diligence and determination to bring these matters to a swift and safe conclusion,” she said.
Residents should expect to see an increased police presence and are asked to cooperate with officers if stopped. Anyone with information about the escapees, the Purcell shooting, or unusual activity is urged to contact the RVIPF immediately.
Primary source: BVI News