News Details

Man Arrested for Discharging Shots at Officers after Traffic Stop

St. Thomas, VI - On Saturday, October 22, 2022, at approximately 6:30 p.m., the Virgin Islands Police Department Special Operation Bureau along with law enforcement officers from DPNR and DLCA were conducting routine traffic stops for Operation “Over-Watch” around Food Center on Nicholas “Nick” Friday Memorial Drive.

suspect
N’Kel Morton

Officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for excessive tint. After the traffic stop, the operator of the vehicle drove off in a reckless manner and attempted to strike down several officers. The driver also discharged a firearm in the direction of the officers.

Due to the actions of the suspect, the officers returned fire. The suspect sped off towards Red Hook and officers were able to apprehend him shortly after in the Annas Retreat area.

Officers charged and arrested 28-year-old N’Kel Morton for Attempted Murder 1st , Assault 1st , Assault 3rd , Reckless Endangerment, and Interfering with Officers Discharging their Duties.

The bail was set at $300,000. Mr. Morton was remanded to the Bureau of Corrections pending Advice of Rights hearing.

This case is presently under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Bureau. Anyone with any information regarding this incident, please call the Criminal Investigation Bureau, Chief’s Office or contact CIB Detective Bedminster at (340) 774-2211 ext. 5573 or Crime Stoppers V.I. at 1 (800) 222-TIPS (8477).

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All individuals listed as arrested or charged with a crime in this press release are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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  • St. Thomas