Shooting Reported in Purcell Area
Reports indicate 10–12 gunshots were fired in the Purcell area this evening, with one person possibly injured and the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital placed under lockdown. Police have not yet confirmed details; a territory-wide manhunt is underway for two prisoners who escaped custody yesterday evening.
Breaking reports indicate a shooting in the Purcell area earlier this evening, with witnesses saying about 10–12 shots rang out and at least one person may have been injured. There has been no official confirmation of injuries from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) at the time of publication.
Orlando Smith Hospital in Road Town have put the facility under lockdown, local reports say. Hospital staff and visitors were asked to remain inside while security procedures were implemented. Hospital administrators have not released further details publicly. The shooting comes as authorities continue a territory-wide manhunt for two prisoners who escaped custody during a prison break yesterday, 25 October, between approximately 6:00pm and 9:00pm.
The RVIPF has confirmed the escape is active and officers across the Virgin Islands have been mobilised. It is not yet known whether the Purcell incident is connected to the escapees; investigators are treating both matters as urgent. Residents in Purcell and surrounding Road Town areas should expect an increased police presence, including road checks and possible temporary road closures.
Members of the public are urged to avoid the immediate area to allow officers to carry out their inquiries and to follow any instructions issued by the RVIPF or emergency personnel. Anyone with information about the shooting or the whereabouts of the escapees is asked to contact the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force immediately.
If you are in the area, remain indoors and keep doors and windows secured. If you witnessed the incident or have dashcam or mobile footage, preserve it and notify police. BVI Live will continue to follow updates from police, hospital officials, and emergency services and will publish further information as it becomes available.
For safety, residents should rely on official channels for confirmations and instructions rather than unverified social media reports.
Primary source: Guavaberry