VIPD: Critical New Warnings on STX Carjackings

A.J. Pike

St. Croix - The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) has issued a new advisory to residents of St. Croix to stay vigilant at night when driving on the roads due to a rash of armed carjackings and related vehicle theft operations across the Territory. Recent incidents on St. Croix involves a “road trap” technique with armed gunmen targeting motorists.

A “road trap” carjacking is an ambush tactic where criminals place everyday obstacles - like traffic cones, debris, tree branches, large rocks, simulated accidents or medical emergencies, eggs or murky liquid thrown on the windshield - on a dark or isolated road. The goal is to trick the driver into stopping and exiting their vehicle to move the obstacle, creating an opportunity to rob and carjack them at gunpoint. If you experience any of these “road traps,” do not get out of your car.      

The VIPD states that many victims are targeted at night or at overlook areas and they urge avoid parking in isolated or unlit areas. When approaching known high-risk areas keep your car doors locked and windows rolled up.

St. Croix District Chief of Police Uston Cornelius and Deputy Chief of Police Naomi Joseph held a brief broadcast on the criminal matter, revealing details of a night-time ambush in the Frangipani area the other night at 8:30 pm. 

A motorist encountered a tire deliberately placed flat in the middle of the roadway. The driver of a white Lexus believed it was merely a traffic hazard and got out of his car to move the tire. He was immediately rushed by armed assailants. The gunmen seized his vehicle and quickly fled the scene, leaving the victim stranded in the roadway.

“These are crimes that are happening here and now,” said Deputy Chief Joseph. “When you are in your car at night and you see things in the middle of the road, Do Not Stop!” 

The VIPD also urges drivers to remove illegal plastic shields from license plates, as this obscures the numbers and hinders police from quickly identifying and tracking stolen cars. Ensure your vehicle has both the front and rear license plates securely attached.

The VIPD issued direct, defensive protocols for anyone traveling St. Croix roads after dark: 

DO NOT GET OUT: If you see a tire, a branch, or any suspicious debris blocking your lane, assume it is an ambush. Never step out to investigate. 

REVERSE IMMEDIATELY: Put your vehicle in reverse and put distance between yourself and the obstacle. Turn around and head in the opposite direction.

CALL 911 ON THE MOVE: As you are driving away from the location, call 911 immediately to report the hazard so emergency dispatchers can send armed units to clear the area.

If you witness a carjacking or spot a stolen vehicle, do not approach the suspects. Immediately contact the 911 Emergency Call Center or submit a confidential tip to Crime Stoppers VI 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).  

At the broadcast, Chief Cornelius talked about the recent rash of burglaries and robberies on St. Croix. He wanted to assure the public that the VIPD was actively working on the crimes and bringing those criminals to justice as quickly as possible.

“We wanted to make sure you know that it has not dropped by the wayside,” Chief Cornelius said, requesting that residents continue to come forward with tips. “Help us to help you.”

Deputy Chief Joseph reiterated his comments. “If you saw something and you know something, share it with us. Because we are not there…All of us together can really make a dent in crime.”