THE VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE DEPARTMENT 
                                     “To Protect and Serve” 
       Office of the Commissioner 
 
 
AAF Justice Complex, 5400 Veterans Drive St. Thomas, 00802 * (340) 774-2211 
Administrative Services Building 45 Mars Hill, Frederiksted St. Croix, 00840 * (340) 778-2211 
 
www.vipd.vi.gov 
 
VIPD NEWS RELEASE - 092623-303 
For Immediate Media Distribution 
 
September 27, 2023  
 
Suspect in Frontline Shooting that Left Two Injured is in VIPD’s Custody 
 
St. Croix, USVI - One adult male and adult female gunshot victims were transported to the 
Juan F. Luis Hospital in private vehicles after being shot while at Frontline Bar and 
Restuarant on Monday, September 25, 2023, at approximately 1:30 a.m. 
 
Investigation into this matter revealed that the male victim was involved in a verbal 
altercation that quickly turned physical. During the physical altercation, Deray Smithen drew 
a firearm and immediately began firing at the victim, striking him five times. The male victim 
is in serious condition and must undergo surgery. 
 
The female victim was treated for her injuries and released. 
 
Mr. Smithen was positively identified by multiple individuals and on surveillance video 
footage as the shooter.  
 
On Tuesday, September 26, 2023, Deray Smithen was apprehended at the Cyril E. King 
Airport while trying to board a flight to the mainland. He was flagged by NCIC by Customs 
and Border Protection.  Smithen, age 35 is now in VIPD’s custody. 
 
Anyone with information on this case is urged to call 911, Criminal Investigation Bureau 
Tipline at (340)778-4850 or Crime Stoppers V.I. at 1(800)222-8477. 
 
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