ST. CROIX — Rusiel Encarnacion, 45, is being remembered by family, friends, and loved ones after a tragic shooting in the Whim area of St. Croix claimed his life on Monday evening.
According to information released by authorities, the incident occurred on June 15, 2026, when the St. Croix 911 Emergency Call Center received a ShotSpotter notification along with multiple reports of gunfire in the area shortly after 6 p.m. Callers also reported that a person may have been injured during the shooting.
At approximately 6:04 p.m., officers with the Virgin Islands Police Department, Emergency Medical Services personnel, and other emergency responders were dispatched to the scene to investigate the reports. Upon arrival, first responders located a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency personnel immediately rendered aid before transporting the victim by ambulance to Juan F. Luis Hospital for further medical treatment. Despite the efforts of healthcare professionals to save his life, the victim later succumbed to his injuries.
Family members later identified the deceased as 45-year-old Rusiel Encarnacion.
News of his death has left family members and friends grieving the loss of a loved one whose life was taken far too soon. As loved ones come to terms with the tragedy, many are reflecting on the memories, relationships, and moments shared with Encarnacion throughout his life.
The shooting has also renewed concerns about gun violence within the community, as residents seek answers regarding the circumstances that led to the fatal incident. Investigators have not yet released details about a possible suspect or what may have preceded the shooting.
Authorities continue to process evidence, interview potential witnesses, and examine all available information as they work to determine exactly what occurred. Detectives are seeking assistance from the public as they pursue leads in the case.
The Virgin Islands Police Department has confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Officials stated that additional information will be released as it becomes available and as investigators continue their efforts to establish the facts surrounding the deadly shooting.
Anyone who may have information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-778-2211, call 911, or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
As the investigation moves forward, family and friends are left to mourn the loss of Rusiel Encarnacion and honor the memory of a man whose passing has deeply affected those who knew and loved him. Though his life ended tragically, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of family members, friends, and all who shared in his journey.
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