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Fired from Job, Knife-Wielding Man Shot to Death at Restaurant

April 19, 2008 — An 18-year-old man from Estate Glynn was shot and killed Friday night after he threatened his employer and patrons at the Smugglers Cove Restaurant in Christiansted.
According to preliminary police reports, Gabriel Thomas was upset after he was terminated from his job as a dishwasher at the restaurant. While he was waiting for his ride home Thomas attempted to attack his former boss with knives he took from the kitchen, according to a statement from the V.I. Police Department. There were several diners in the restaurant around 10:30 p.m. when the incident occurred, including Assistant Attorney General Kip Roberson, who saw the altercation unfolding.
Police said when Roberson intervened to assist the owner and other employees, Thomas advanced on him, threatening him with the knives. After asking Thomas to stop several times, Roberson shot him with his licensed firearm.
Thomas was pronounced dead by Medical Examiner D’Michelle Dupre who was called to the scene. Thomas, a native of Dominica who lived in Estate Glenn, was identified by his next of kin.
Commissioner James H. McCall said Saturday that based on eyewitness reports, the shooting appears to have been justifiable self-defense. An official determination will be made at the conclusion of the investigation, he said.
Roberson has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, Attorney General Vincent Frazer said Saturday. "This investigation will be handled thoroughly as all other investigations, and a public statement will be issued at the conclusion of the investigation," he said.
Investigation Bureau detectives are continuing to gather evidence, interview witnesses and evaluate the scene. Police have confiscated the firearm used in the shooting as the investigation continues, McCall said.

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