The V.I. Police Department on Saturday arrested 36-year-old Omarie Smith of Smith Bay after Smith was identified as the individual who fired shots at a man in front of an establishment in Smith Bay earlier that day, injuring the victim.
According to police, Smith was arrested at 2:34 p.m., Oct. 24, and charged with first-degree assault, reckless endangerment and possession of an unlicensed firearm.
Bail for Smith was set at $75,000. Unable to post bail, he was turned over to the custody of the Bureau of Corrections pending his advice of rights hearing.
St. Thomas/St. John/Water Island District Chief of Police Steven Phillip denounced this shooting incident, and commended officers and detectives for their work in swiftly locating the suspect. He again called for an end to gun violence in the territory.
“We must find a better way to solve disputes. Using firearms can be devastating for you and others,” Phillip said.
Police urged anyone with information about this incident or any other crime to contact the VIPD by calling 911, the Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-774-2211, or the anonymous tip service, Crime Stoppers USVI, at 1-800-222-8477 (1-800-222-TIPS).
