A St. Croix man was arrested Monday after police said he struck an officer with a metal crutch at a local bank, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department.
The incident occurred about 4 p.m. Monday, when the 911 Emergency Call Center dispatched officers to Oriental Bank at Estate Diamond for a report of a disturbance.
According to the release, the responding officer ordered Warren Freeman to leave the premises, but he refused. Police said that while the officer was speaking with another individual, Freeman rose from his wheelchair and struck the officer with a metal hand crutch, causing an open laceration to the officer’s face.
Freeman was arrested and transported to the Wilbur Francis Command, where he was processed and refused to be booked, police said.
He was charged with assault third, aggravated assault and battery, disturbance of the peace, and interfering with an officer discharging his duties. Bail was set at $25,000.
Unable to post bail, Freeman was remanded to the John Bell Adult Correctional Facility pending his advice of rights hearing, according to the press release.
A St. Croix man was arrested Tuesday in connection with an incident involving unauthorized entry and an assault that was reported earlier this year, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department.
Police said the case began on Jan. 7, 2026, at about 5:47 p.m., when a complainant reported to the Ancilmo Marshall Command Police Station that a male had entered her home and assaulted a male acquaintance inside.
An investigation identified Lionel Benjamin as the suspect. Police said he entered the complainant’s apartment without authorization and became involved in a physical altercation with the male inside.
On Monday, Benjamin was apprehended and arrested on charges of burglary first, simple assault and battery, and disturbing the peace, according to the VIPD. Bail was set at $75,000.
He was booked and transported to the John Bell Adult Correction Facility pending his advice of rights hearing.
Breeze Airways announced twice-weekly flights between Tampa, Fla. and St. Thomas starting on Dec. 16. (Source photo by Siân Cobb)
Low-cost airline Breeze Airways will begin twice-weekly nonstop flights between Tampa and St. Thomas starting Dec. 16.
Tampa International Airport announced the new routes in a press release Tuesday and said the flights will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The airline is also launching nonstop flights between Tampa and Cancun, Mexico, on Dec. 19. Tampa airport chief executive Michael Stephens called the new routes “milestones” for the airport.
“Both destinations are in high demand among Tampa Bay travelers, and the timing couldn’t be better as we look ahead to this year’s busy holiday travel season,” he stated. “We can’t wait to celebrate the launch of these routes in December.”
The new routes were announced just days after Spirit Airlines shuttered all operations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and reducing overall airlift for Virgin Islanders. Prior to shutting down, Spirit operated routes connecting St. Thomas to Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, the latter of which also connected to St. Croix.
With its new routes to St. Thomas and Cancun, Breeze will offer service to 37 destinations from Tampa. Flights will depart Tampa at 2:39 p.m. and arrive in St. Thomas at 5:39 p.m., then depart the territory at 6:39 p.m. and arrive back in Tampa at 10:09 p.m. The airline was cofounded in 2017 by Brazilian-American businessman David Gary Neeleman, who expressed confidence that Tampa travelers “will love these destinations.”
A V.I. Port Authority spokesperson could not be reached for additional comment on Tuesday evening.
The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works today announced the completion of several key infrastructure projects, along with continued progress on roadway improvements territory-wide.
Public Works Derek Gabriel. (Screenshot from Facebook live stream)
These efforts reflect ongoing investments in the territory’s transportation network through a combination of local and federal funding sources.
“These are not just projects—we are delivering long-overdue infrastructure improvements that our communities have been waiting on for years,” said Albert Bryan Jr. “We have secured the funding, we have worked through the challenges, and now we are executing. Every road we pave and every repair we complete, is about improving daily life for our residents and ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of this territory. We are moving forward, and we are not slowing down.”
St. Thomas / St. John District
On St. Thomas, DPW contractors recently completed roadway rehabilitation along Irvin “Brownie” Brown Drive in Savan, as well as critical segments of Estate Bolongo and Valdemar A. Hill Sr. Drive (Skyline). These roadways serve as essential connectors for residents, businesses, and emergency services, and their improvement enhances safety, drivability, and overall accessibility.
DPW contractors recently commenced paving operations along segments of Frydendahl Drive near Coki Point, continuing the Department’s phased roadway improvement efforts in high-traffic corridors.
Looking ahead, paving is scheduled to begin in several areas of Bovoni, including segments of Benburin “Benny” Stephens Drive, Bovoni Hill, and Nadir Terrace (Lima Road). These long-awaited repairs are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 6, 2026, and continue through Friday, April 13, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The work will deliver meaningful improvements to a community that has experienced significant roadway challenges and remains a priority for the Department.
“Recognizing this is a high-traffic area, we are asking motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution when traveling through the area,” said DPW Commissioner Derek Gabriel. “Residents should also expect temporary impacts to on-street parking and property access during construction.”
On St. John, DPW contractors completed repairs to the Wharf Bypass and segments of Fish Fry Drive in April, improving access and traffic flow in a key area for both residents and visitors. The Department is also finalizing additional paving task orders for other segments of Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, with work scheduled for completion this summer.
St. Croix District
Today, in the St. Croix District, DPW contractors completed temporary repairs to the Spring Gut bridge, maintaining safe and continued access ahead of a planned permanent replacement later this year as part of Phase 1 of the Spring Gut Improvements, funded through GARVEE Bonds. The Department also recently completed repairs along Midland Road and in the Estate Diamond Ruby community.
Additionally, contractors will begin asphalt rehabilitation work at the East Airport Intersection along Melvin Evans Highway (Route 66) from Thursday, May 7, through Saturday, May 9, 2026, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily.
During this period, the intersection will be closed to all traffic, with detours in place at the Industrial Park and Diageo intersections. The project scope includes shoulder grading to improve drainage, milling of the existing deteriorated asphalt surface, full roadway resurfacing, and restriping of the intersection.
Motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid the area during work hours and utilize alternate routes. The Department advises the traveling public to access Route 70 (Queen Mary Highway) to bypass the East Airport Intersection:
• Westbound traffic will be detoured at the Diageo Intersection via Route 663 to access Route 70.
• Eastbound traffic will be detoured at the Industrial Park Intersection via Route 669 to access Route 70.
• Airport access should be made via West Airport Road (Route 64) through the West Airport Intersection on Melvin Evans Highway.
The Department appreciates the public’s patience as these long-awaited improvements are completed. “Every project we advance is about improving quality of life for our residents,” said DPW Commissioner Derek Gabriel. “From neighborhood roads to major corridors, we are committed to delivering infrastructure that is safer, more resilient, and reflective of the needs of our communities.
Diana Hampton and Denise Lenhardt Benoit, front left, join other advocates to lobby representatives on Capitol Hill, including Delegate Stacey Plaskett, during the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy Diane Hampton)
My journey with the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit has been one of growth, determination, and purpose — not just for myself, but for the entire U.S. Virgin Islands community.
The VI Breast Cancer Project was founded in 2016 alongside my co-founder, Dr. Berhnard Bierlich, with a singular purpose: to support and advance research on breast cancer. From the very beginning, we understood that research is the pathway to understanding, treatment, and ultimately, a cure.
Since 2016, I have consistently attended the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summits, deepened my knowledge and strengthened my voice as an advocate. I am also a proud graduate of the NBCC LEAD Institute, where I received intensive training in breast cancer science, public policy, and advocacy — preparing me to effectively engage in the national dialogue on research and healthcare.
In 2023, there were five of us representing the Virgin Islands — one from St. Thomas and four from St. Croix. It was a proud moment to stand together, united in advocacy and committed to ensuring that our voices were part of the national conversation. In 2024, I found myself alone. I was the only voice representing the U.S. Virgin Islands. While that reality could have felt isolating, it instead strengthened my resolve. I understood more clearly than ever that showing up matters. If you are not at the table, no one knows what you want.
That same year brought an unexpected and memorable moment. While staying at the Park Hyatt Washington, we had a rare opportunity encounter with President Joe Biden. He was simply exiting the restaurant — not a scheduled meeting — but we were able to briefly speak with him. When he learned that we were from St. Croix, he was delighted, as he frequently visits the island during the Christmas holidays. That moment reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful connections happen when you simply show up and are present.
Diana Hampton and Denise Lenhardt Benoit lobby representatives on Capitol Hill, including Delegate Stacey Plaskett, during the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy Diane Hampton)
In 2026, I made a commitment: I would not go alone. Denise Lenhardt Benoit joined me, and together we represented the Virgin Islands with pride and purpose. As advocates, we stood alongside members of the National Breast Cancer Coalition and brought our voices to Capitol Hill. We met with senior staff from Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, who has consistently supported the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program.
What makes this work so impactful is the mission behind it. The National Breast Cancer Coalition provides a critical pathway to research through advocacy and federal funding, particularly through the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program (BCRP). Attending the summit offers a unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the latest breakthroughs in breast cancer research, to engage with scientists, and to better understand how advocacy directly influences scientific progress. Their activism has generated more than $4 billion in new funding for breast cancer research. Through collaboration with scientists and stakeholders, they have helped shape new models of research — ones that are more inclusive, informed, and driven by urgency.
This is where my vision for the Virgin Islands becomes clear. It is my determination that one day the Virgin Islands will partner with leading professional research teams to specifically study breast cancer within our own population. Our community deserves research that reflects our unique experiences, our genetics, and our environment. And through continued advocacy, education, and participation in forums like the summit, I believe we can help make that vision a reality. This is why advocacy matters.
My goal is simple yet urgent: to encourage more breast cancer survivors and advocates from the Virgin Islands to participate in future summits. We have many cancer organizations across our islands, and each one carries voices that deserve to be heard on the national stage. I often say: if you’re not at the table, nobody knows what you want. You have to be there. You have to speak. And sometimes, you have to become the voice when no one else shows up.
Looking ahead to 2027, my vision is bold but achievable. I am committed to ensuring that every organization within our V.I. Cancer Coalition is represented by at least one breast cancer survivor or advocate at the summit. No matter what.
Closing Reflection
This work is bigger than me — it belongs to all of us. Together, we can ensure that the voices of the Virgin Islands are not only present, but powerful. And as long as I have a voice, I will use it to open doors for others to take their seat at the table at the National Breast Cancer Coalition Summit.
— Diane Hampton, Project Co-Founder/Project Director of Breast Cancer Project on St. Croix, cancer survivor and advocate
Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.
The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works advises the public of a temporary road closure along Melvin Evans Highway from the Industrial Park Intersection to the Diage Intersection for asphalt rehabilitation at the East Airport Intersection.
DW contractor – Marco St. Croix, Inc. – will commence work on Thursday, May 7, through Saturday, May 9, between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The scope will include shoulder grading, milling, paving, and re-striping. This project is funded through GARVEE Funds.
Motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid the area and follow posted detour signage. Please refer to the provided map for clear guidance on alternate routes.
Westbound traffic will be diverted at the Diage Intersection via Route 663 to Route 70 (Queen Mary Highway).
Eastbound traffic will be diverted at the Industrial Park Intersection via Route 669 to Route 70.
Access to the airport should be made via West Airport Road (Route 64) through the West Airport Intersection.
DW appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as it works to improve road conditions throughout the territory.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS DIVISION OF ST. THOMAS AND ST. JOHN
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF:
Alphonse Powell a/k/a Alphonse Lewis Powell , Deceased.
PROBATE CASE NO. ST-2026-PB-00030 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Petition for Administration has been filed on behalf of the ESTATE OF Alphonse Powell a/k/a Alphonse Lewis Powell, Deceased, and that JULIA V. GREGOIRE has been appointed administratrix of the above estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to promptly present them to the undersigned or with the Court, verified by affidavit, and all persons indebted to the estate are required to make payment promptly to Kurt E. Petri, Esq., Attorney for the Estate.
Respectfully submitted,
Dated: May 5, 2026
DUDLEY NEWMAN FEUERZEIG LLP /s/Kurt E. Petri, Esq. Kurt E. Petri, Esq.
V.I. Bar No. 1110
Law House – 1000 Frederiksberg Gade
St. Thomas, USVI 00802
Telephone: (340) 774-4422
E-mail: kpetri@dnfvi.com
From lively music and cultural celebrations to great food and community gatherings, Cinco de Mayo is a time of energy and joy across the territory. The VI Police Department/Office of Highway Safety (VIPD/OHS) is reminding everyone to celebrate responsibly and keep safety first on the road.
(Submitted photo)
Cinco de Mayo is a time of celebration, culture, and togetherness, but that spirit should never include impaired or careless driving. Alcohol, drugs, distractions, and fatigue can cause slow reaction time, impaired judgement resulting in increased crashes, serious injuries, and sometimes fatalities.
Keep the celebrations joyful by planning to:
Arrange for a sober driver.
Never drive under the influence, choose a safe way home.
Stay focused behind the wheel and avoid distractions.
Make sure you are well-rested before getting behind the wheel.
The goal is simple: enjoy every moment of the celebration and make it home safely to do it again tomorrow.
For more information about drug-impaired driving, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving. To request a traffic safety presentation or learn more about impaired driving prevention, contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, or the Impaired Driving Program Manager, K’ Tonya Petrus at k’tonya.petrus@vi.gov.You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority is informing the public of the upcoming Queen Street (Feeder 1A) Underground Electrical Project in Christiansted Town, with construction anticipated to begin in mid-May 2026.
Map of the Queen Street (Feeder 1A) Underground Electrical Project area in Christiansted Town. (Submitted photo)
This project is part of WAPA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen system resilience and improve service reliability by transitioning electrical infrastructure from overhead to underground.
Haugland Virgin Islands, the awarded contractor, will carry out the project on behalf of WAPA. Initial activities will include material staging and site preparation, followed by full construction shortly thereafter.
The project will replace the existing overhead electrical distribution system with a new underground system. Work will include the installation of underground primary distribution lines utilizing concrete-encased duct banks, along with associated infrastructure such as manholes, handholes, pad-mounted switchgear, primary sectionalizing cabinets, primary metering cabinets, and pad-mounted transformers. Construction is currently anticipated to be completed by January 2027.
To facilitate construction, road closures will be implemented in phases, with work progressing in blocks or sections throughout Christiansted Town/Downtown Christiansted. Traffic control plans will be in place, and detour signage will direct motorists safely around active work zones. Drivers should anticipate delays, follow posted signage, and comply with instructions from traffic management personnel.
There may be occasional disruptions to electrical service during certain phases of the project. The Authority will minimize any inconvenience and notify affected areas/customers via WAPA alerts.
WAPA apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciates the community’s cooperation and support as the Authority continues to modernize and strengthen the territory’s electrical distribution system.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.
A group of 21 student chess players from St. Thomas and St. John is being recognized for a strong showing at the National K-12 Grade Championships, held in Chicago at the end of March. (Submitted photo)
A group of 21 student chess players from St. Thomas and St. John is being recognized for a strong showing at the National K-12 Grade Championships, held in Chicago from March 25 to 30.
The students, representing the St. Thomas/St. John Youth Scholastic Chess Club, competed against more than 2,000 players from across the country in the multi-day tournament organized by the United States Chess Federation.
Participants from the Virgin Islands came from a range of schools, including All Saints Cathedral School, Antilles School, Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, Charlotte Amalie High School, V.I. Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy, Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School, and homeschool programs.
Over three days, students competed in seven rounds of play, with top performers in each section earning national recognition.
Among the highlights, Naitik Jhanwar of All Saints Cathedral School delivered one of the strongest performances from the territory, finishing eighth in his section without a loss and earning a medal. He also placed second overall in the National Blitz competition.
Charlotte Amalie High School student Ger’Lanni Straun also earned a medal, placing 18th in his division.
Students from Ivanna Eudora Kean High School — Diego Emile, Leeann Lewis, Peter Phillippe, and Aysia Carty — competed in their first national tournament and, as a team, won more than 60% of their matches.
Antilles School students Dillen Webbe, Ajay Mirpuri, Eli Blondeau, Ethan Ronen, and Roman Overmyer added to the territory’s results, returning home with two trophies from a U.S. Chess Federation-sponsored Blitz competition.
Strong individual performances were also noted across the delegation, including Dejw Wrensford of the homeschool group, as well as Tendaji Davis of the V.I. Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy and Jordan Vanterpool of Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School, both described as rising players in the program.
In addition to the competition, students participated in an educational tour of Chicago, visiting the Museum of Science and Industry, the DuSable Black History Museum, and the University of Chicago.
Organizers extended thanks to community members and organizations who supported the trip, making it possible for the students to compete on the national stage.
The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works advises the public of a temporary road closure along Melvin Evans Highway from the Industrial Park Intersection to the Diage Intersection for asphalt rehabilitation at the East Airport Intersection.
