A member of the US Virgin Islands governor lieutenant governor’s security detail has been shot dead in St Croix.

The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) said 51-year-old Executive Security Officer Eustace Charles was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle after officers responded to reports of shots fired in Williams Delight around 5:50 am on July 26.

Emergency medical personnel pronounced Charles dead at the scene.

Police Commissioner Mario Brooks described Charles as a dedicated public servant who served his community “with honour and dedication” and vowed that investigators would not rest until those responsible were brought to justice.

“To the suspect currently at large I only have three words for you, ‘turn yourself in’. We will not rest, we will not slow down, and we will use every resource available until we catch you,” Brooks said.

The investigation is being carried out jointly by the VIPD and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Governor Albert Bryan said he was “shocked, heartbroken and angered” by Charles’ killing, describing him as a valued member of both the Executive Security Unit and the Office of the Governor.

“Officer Charles was a valued member of the Virgin Islands Police Department’s Executive Security Unit and a dedicated member of the Office of the Governor family. He was assigned to the lieutenant governor’s security detail and served with professionalism, commitment and a deep sense of responsibility.

“His death is a devastating loss to the Executive Security Unit and to the entire family at the Office of the Governor and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Those who worked alongside Officer Charles knew him as a dependable colleague and public servant who took great pride in protecting others.

“Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach, and I extend our deepest condolences to Officer Charles’ family, loved ones, fellow officers and colleagues during this extraordinarily painful time. We grieve with them and will stand beside them as they confront this unimaginable loss.

“This heinous act of violence has taken a valued life and shaken our government family. I share the anger and disbelief felt by so many across our community, and I expect a thorough investigation to ensure that the person or persons responsible are swiftly brought to justice.

Charles’ death brings the US Virgin Islands‘ murder toll for the year to 27.