This latest appeal came in an early-morning media statement from the Royal Virgin Islands (RVIPF) titled, ‘COP: Help us to restore calm and safety’.

“In less than a month, we have seen two murders and Saturday night’s near fatality along with a number of other firearm-related incidents. The risk of injury or death to innocent bystanders is very high. Our community deserves to feel and be safe. We need all who are either party to these actions or participating themselves to refrain from any more bloodshed. Please consider the consequences of decisions made in the heat of the moment. Help us to restore calm,” Commissioner Collins stated.

He said his officers are committed to identifying offenders but cannot do so alone. “I urge anyone who has any information on Saturday night’s shooting or other recent incidents to come forward,” Collins said.

The top cop further noted the need for relatives and friends of persons either aware of, or participating in gun violence to offer ‘wise counsel’ to these persons.

In the meantime, the police said persons can confidentially call the CrimeStoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS) or call 1-284-800-8477 with information about any of the recent shootings or illegal firearms in the territory.