Bryan Calls For Calm

M.A. Dworkin

USVI - Governor Albert Bryan Jr. delivered a live public address Sunday, July 26, 2026, to call upon Virgin Islanders to remain calm, reject violence and cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation into the shooting death of Virgin Islands Police Department Executive Security Unit Officer Eustace Charles. The Governor  reassured the Virgin Islands community that an intensive and coordinated law enforcement response is under way by both the VIPD and the FBI.

During the address, Governor Bryan honored Officer Charles’ life service, expressed support for his grieving family and colleagues.

“I come before you today shocked, heartbroken and angered by the tragic shooting death of Executive Security Officer Eustace Charles,” the Governor said. “Officer Charles was not only a valued member of the Virgin Islands Police Department’s Executive Security Unit, he was a member of our Government House family. 

Officer Charles was assigned to the security detail of Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach, Esq., and was fatally shot, outside his Williams Delight home, Sunday morning, July 26, 2026, while preparing to report for duty.

Governor Bryan described Officer Charles as a dependable colleague, a true gentleman and a dedicated public servant who carried out his duties with professionalism, commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility.

“Those who worked alongside him knew the pride he took in protecting others,” Governor Bryan said. “His death is a devastating loss to the Executive Security Unit, the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Office of the Governor and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.”

Governor Bryan said the VIPD acted swiftly in the hours following the shooting. Investigators used camera technology to track vehicles, apprehend several persons of interest, executed warrants and recovered firearms. 

The Governor declined to discuss details that could compromise the active investigation but said every available lead would be pursued thoroughly and relentlessly. 

“We owe Officer Charles and every member of our community nothing less than the full pursuit of justice,” the Governor said.

Governor Bryan said that Officer Charles was ambushed by several gunmen as he left his St. Croix home to report for duty early Sunday morning. In the first accounts of what authorities believe what happened, the Governor stated that Mr. Charles was leaving his home about 5 to 5:30 am, to report to work protecting Lt. Governor Tregenza Roach when his vehicle was blocked.

“He was ambushed by several individuals who opened fire on him,” the Governor explained, going on to state that Charles’ family heard the gunfire and responded, finding him still breathing before he died.

“At this point, several arrests have been made - we call them persons of interest.”

This is an active ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding this murder please contact 911, the CIB at 340-778-2211, or Crime Stoppers VI at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).