The University of the Virgin Islands community is mourning the loss of 17-year-old freshman Kareem L. Pinney, who was tragically killed early Sunday morning. Pinney, a promising student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Mathematics at UVI’s College of Science and Mathematics, was fatally shot near his family’s home at the Grandview Apartments Housing Community on St. Thomas.
“This is a tragedy of epic proportions,” said UVI President Dr. Safiya George. “The loss of someone so young tears the soul apart.” George extended condolences to Pinney’s family, friends, and the UVI community, emphasizing the university’s commitment to supporting students and staff affected by the loss.
To aid students in processing this tragedy, UVI’s Office of Counseling and Placement is offering support in the Student Affairs Building (Rouppe House). Counseling Director Dahlia Stridiron can be reached at 340-693-1136 or dstridi@uvi.edu, while virtual counseling options are available with Patricia Towal, director of Counseling and Career Services, via Microsoft Teams or ptowal@uvi.edu.
On Tuesday, UVI will establish a memorial reflection space in the East Residence Hall, with a vigil planned to honor Pinney’s memory. Additional information and updates will be shared through the UVI website and social media channels.
