Police on St. Thomas are asking the community’s help in catching the man or men who killed 22-year-old Patrick Smith Sunday night at Paul M. Pearson Gardens basketball court.
VIPD Chief Rodney Querrard said police got a call reporting gunshots at Pearson at about 9:10 p.m. When they arrived just minutes later, they found Smith, a resident of Contant Knowles, lying on the court bleeding from multiple gunshot wounds. Smith was rushed to Schneider Regional Medical Center, where he died.
At least two men were seen running from the scene, Querrard said.
Another man reported being hit with a stray bullet in his toe, Querrard said. “We’re still interviewing witnesses,” he said.
“This has nothing to do with Carnival,” Querrard said at a short press conference in the Fort Christian parking lot Monday morning.
“We’re hoping for a quick closure on this matter,” Querrard said. “And, of course, we’re asking for the community’s support.”
The chief urged residents to call the lead investigator at 642-8441, or the Major Crimes Unit at 715-5534 or 715-5544. Callers can also use 911 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).