Home Invasion Suspects Carried 7 Weapons

The three suspects in the Nov. 30 home invasion that ended with two dead and a V.I. Police officer wounded were heavily armed, St. Croix Acting Police Chief James Parris said. According to Parris, the three men "seemed to be determined not to be captured."

A news release issued Tuesday provided additional information on the deadly incident. According to the release, officers confiscated seven illegal weapons from the three suspects, including automatic weapons.

Items that were stolen from the home included jewelry and cell phones, which police returned to the owners.

Parris said the officer who was injured by gunfire is receiving additional medical treatment on the U.S. mainland. The police dog that was injured was treated after he received several blows to his head with a handgun wielded by the 15-year-old suspect who attempted to flee.

That minor received gunshot wounds to both legs and is in the custody of the Youth Rehabilitation Center. His name has been withheld under a police policy to not name minor suspects. He appeared before Family Court Judge Patricia Steele on Monday.

The other two suspects were killed in a shootout with police. They were identified in court as Edwin Carmone, 30, and Franklyn Johnson Jr., 20.

Parris said the perpetrators of this heinous crime seemed to have no respect for police or any human life and were out to get what they could by any means necessary.

He commended the resident who had the presence of mind to call 911 and leave the call open. He also commended the 911 staff for their professionalism under stressful circumstances. The acting chief reserved his highest praise for the officers who responded to the scene.

“The police officers displayed exemplary bravery and courage," he said. "Many of the officers were just getting off shift but did not hesitate to place themselves at the frontline directly in the face of danger. The community should be proud. I know I am.”