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Suppression Efforts Complete at Bovoni Landfill; Local Advisories Revoked

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The Virgin Islands’ Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) has formally declared an end to its suppression activities at Bovoni Landfill. While the main firefighting operations have ceased, a dedicated team remains on the ground, vigilant for any remaining embers or potential hotspots that might pose a threat.

As a sign of the situation’s improved state, all precautionary directives previously relayed to nearby neighborhoods have been officially rescinded. This means an immediate return to regular routines and activities for both individual residents and commercial establishments. The local community’s patience and collaboration during this event did not go unnoticed, with VIFEMS extending their heartfelt thanks for the unwavering support and understanding they received.

In parallel news, academic activities are set to get back on track. The V.I. Department of Education announced the resumption of classes at Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School, starting from today.

Fortuitously, the Bovoni Landfill fire did not lead to any injuries. Investigations have pinned the fire’s origin to spontaneous combustion occurring within a pile of vegetation debris. This operation saw the combined strength and expertise of fifty-one personnel, both active and off-duty. Furthermore, the collaboration was bolstered with support from external entities such as A9 Trucking, Sleepy Trucking & Water Delivery, and St. Thomas Rescue. Their combined efforts were instrumental in swiftly confining the fire’s reach.

The dedication and relentless effort of the responders drew commendation from St. Thomas/St. John’s Fire Chief, Clarence Stephenson. He lauded their approach, mentioning, “From the moment our Suppression and EMS teams were summoned at 5:30 a.m., their dedication never waned. Our strategy, employing an amalgamation of pumpers, tankers, and heavy machinery, was pivotal in dousing the hot spots and ensuring a well-orchestrated containment.”

VIFEMS reiterated their gratitude for the exceptional teamwork displayed during this operation. With the situation now firmly under control, they expressed their unwavering faith in the skill and dedication of their teams, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community they serve.

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USVI Community Pulse

Celebrating Legacies: Proposals to Honor Ralph deChabert and Melbourne Clark in the USVI

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The US Virgin Islands’ Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs & Consumer Protection recently deliberated on two separate proposals, aiming to commemorate the noteworthy contributions of distinguished Virgin Islanders, Ralph deChabert and the late Melbourne Clark.

Dr. Ralph deChabert, renowned for his substantial contributions to the medical and civic realms, is being spotlighted in Bill 35-0102, with a proposition to dedicate the maternity services unit at Juan F. Louis Hospital North to his name. Testimonials highlighted his lifelong dedication to St. Croix, portraying him as a silent force with substantial influence and passion for the advancement of medicine in the territory. Dr. deChabert, often the sole trained obstetrician available on St. Croix, played pivotal roles in initiating crucial healthcare services and ensuring the safety and well-being of many during times of crisis, such as Hurricane Hugo.

Melbourne Clark, recognized through Bill 35-0125, is lauded for his unwavering service to law enforcement in the Virgin Islands. The proposed bill seeks to name Route 669 on St. Croix as Police Lieutenant Melbourne Clark Drive, celebrating his disciplined approach to maintaining law and order on the highways and his respected stature as a knowledgeable and attentive commander. Stories of his principled stance against traffic violations, contributing to public safety, have become part of local lore, illustrating his commitment to duty and his professional integrity.

These individuals’ remarkable journeys were recounted with warmth and respect, painting pictures of dedication, resilience, and impactful service to the Virgin Island communities. The committee members unanimously approved the proposals to honor these eminent personalities, sealing their legacies in the history of the Virgin Islands.

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USVI Community Pulse

Alleged Perpetrator of Frontline Bar Incident, Deray Smithen, Detained at Local Airport

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ST. THOMAS — Authorities have successfully apprehended Deray Smithen, the chief suspect involved in the recent incident at Frontline Bar & Restaurant, as confirmed by the V.I. Police Department. He was detained on Tuesday at Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, resulting in two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds—a man, who is now in critical condition, and a woman who sustained minor injuries. They were immediately provided medical aid at Juan F. Luis Hospital.

Multiple eye-witness accounts and surveillance recordings pinpointed Smithen as the main perpetrator. It was reported that what started as a verbal spat at Frontline Bar & Restaurant escalated to a violent confrontation, leading to Smithen allegedly firing several rounds. The male victim received critical injuries, while a stray bullet grazed a woman trying to evade the turmoil.

Smithen, a 35-year-old man, reportedly arrived in St. Thomas by boat and intended to fly to the U.S. mainland. However, his plans were foiled when Customs and Border Protection agents at Cyril E. King Airport apprehended him, following an alert from the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

Smithen was previously described by the VIPD as a black male, around 5’10” tall, weighing approximately 210 lbs., with distinctive short, black hair, and brown eyes.

The local authorities continue to seek any additional insights or information regarding this case and urge the public to share relevant details. Persons with pertinent information are asked to contact the CIB Detectives at 340-778-4850 or the CIB tip line at 340-475-3871. Anonymous tips can also be provided to Crime Stoppers VI at 1-800-222-TIPS. In case of an emergency or immediate threat, please call 911.

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Domestic Altercation Escalates in St. Thomas; Vehicle Plunges Down Slope

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In St. Thomas, an alarming domestic dispute unfolded as a man faces serious charges related to domestic violence after allegedly defying police orders and pushing a vehicle down an embankment. The incident reportedly involves legal and familial conflicts between the man and his wife.

Early Sunday morning, law enforcement responded to a call for assistance at a residence in Frydenhoj. A woman at the location requested police aid to retrieve possessions from her spouse, Chad JnoFinn, citing fears for her and her infant’s safety. She expressed her desire for JnoFinn to vacate the premises, where he resides with her and her child.

Documents reveal the woman informed officers about the dysfunctional state of her vehicle and her neighbor’s offer to transport her to work, which JnoFinn opposed. She accused him of endangering their child by placing them in front of the neighbor’s car and revealed previous threats of harm from JnoFinn, leading to multiple police interventions.

All assets, including their residence, vehicles, and a water delivery enterprise, are registered under the woman’s name. She solicited police assistance to secure the keys to one of the vehicles from JnoFinn, who was present during the police interaction.

JnoFinn conceded his lack of legal status in the territory and disclosed his contributions to the establishment of their business while his wife managed the financial aspects of their lives. He stated his willingness to relocate, contingent upon the transfer of the water truck to a neutral party, a proposal his wife rejected.

When instructed to surrender the vehicle keys, JnoFinn resisted, fleeing in the vehicle and proceeding to push it down an embankment. Despite police orders to desist, he succeeded in dislodging the vehicle, which landed on a construction site below. He subsequently surrendered, demanding incarceration and was charged with property destruction as an act of domestic violence.

The court mandated a $1000 bail, a restraining order, a daily curfew, and a prohibition on possessing dangerous weapons for JnoFinn during his pre-trial release, with a subsequent court date set for October 13.

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