WTJX NEWSFEED

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Bureau of Corrections has pledged to secure the condemned Alva A. Swan Correctional Annex after Senator Franklin Johnson raised concerns that the abandoned facility remained accessible and contained sensitive inmate records. Detectives are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the death of a four-year-old boy who died after suffering a gunshot wound on St. Croix. Attorney General Gordon Rhea says it's too early to say whether ongoing government corruption investigations will result in criminal charges or whether those cases will involve public officials, private contractors, or both. Three U.S. Virgin Islands beaches have been ranked among the World's 50 Best Beaches for 2026, with Trunk Bay on St. John earning the title of the world's top beach. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Alva A. Swan Correctional Annex Source: WTJX/Richard Sturdivant

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: A routine question about a scholarship program during a budget hearing has sparked a back-and-forth between the Virgin Islands Board of Education and the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority: VIBE told lawmakers VIEDA didn’t provide a report needed to manage a territorial scholarship while VIEDA says it did provide the report, calling VIBE's comments inaccurate and unnecessary. But with a closer look, VIEDA’s story isn’t exactly lining up.                  Senators float legislation that would create a Virgin Islands Gaming Control Commission, ahead of the governor calling a special session to discuss the much-debated revised horse racing agreement with Southland Gaming.                  And the Office of the Virgin Islands Inspector General has issued a report that details the mishandling of money in an adult mental health facility run by the Department of Health. Listen to these stories and more. Caption: Dr. Kyza Callwood, chairman of the Virgin Islands Board of Education, left, and Celina Morris, marketing director for the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority.   Credit: U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature / Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: As residents deal with the latest streak of water and power disruptions, Senator Ray Fonseca says he is introducing legislation that would allow the court to temporarily appoint an independent outside manager to run WAPA.   The Virgin Islands Supreme Court is undergoing a rapid and unprecedented change in leadership, as Chief Justice Rhys Hodge and two other justices retire from the bench this year.   And the Virgin Islands Track and Field team has returned home from a championship event in Mexico where it set three national records. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Senator Ray Fonseca speaks during a meeting of the Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance on July 13, 2026. Photo Credit:  U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: After a piece of the deteriorating bridge near the old Addelita Cancryn School on St. Thomas fell and struck a passing vehicle, officials have sent mixed signals over whether the long-unused structure should be repaired or demolished.          Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital leadership says no layoffs have been approved or executed and that they have only begun workforce planning discussions and have not come to a final decision, after reports of a Workforce Reduction Plan affecting bargaining unit employees circulated yesterday.          And police are urging residents to remain vigilant following reports of a phone scam in which criminals impersonate telephone provider representatives to gain unauthorized access to customer accounts. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: The deteriorating pedestrian bridge near the old Addelita Cancryn School on St. Thomas. Photo Credit: WTJX/Dante Morón

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: A robotic BGC-Argo float has been deployed in the waters south of St. Thomas, diving more than a mile below the surface and resurfacing every 10 days to collect data never before gathered in Virgin Islands waters.       After receiving reports of impending layoffs at the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center on St. Croix, Senate Vice President Kenneth Gittens is calling on leadership to move affected workers into funded vacancies elsewhere.       And residents on the west end of St. Croix are experiencing water service disruptions, with some reporting they have gone days without running water. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Members of UVI’s Ocean Glider Lab, CMES and NOAA prepare a BGC-Argo float for deployment in USVI waters. Photo Credit: University of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Virgin Islands Department of Health's EMS for Children Program has received a national award for its work preparing the Territory for emergencies involving children, after coordinating a first-of-its-kind full scale pediatric disaster simulated exercise involving numerous agencies.           The Central Labor Council issued a statement that neither the Council nor its AFL-CIO affiliated unions have endorsed any candidate this election cycle, clarifying that they had no part in the polling process that led to the Area Labor Federation’s endorsement of Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett for governor in the Democratic primary.           And Attorney General Gordon Rhea says criminal charges connected to government corruption are expected within a few weeks.           Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Emergency responders participate in a full-scale pediatric disaster simulated exercise organized by the Virgin Islands Department of Health's EMS for Children Program.   Photo Credit: Virgin Islands Department of Health

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: As the territory celebrates French Heritage Week, Governor Albert Bryan, Jr. has signed a proclamation declaring July 9 “Virgin Islands St. Barths Friendship Day.”                  Nearly a year after police fatally shot 48-year-old Alejandro “Alex” Tores III in LBJ Gardens on St. Croix, his mother says she is still waiting for answers.                  And the Area Labor Federation has thrown its support behind delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett in the upcoming Democratic gubernatorial primary.                  Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Governor Albert Bryan, Jr. shakes hands with St. Barths President Xavier Ledee after signing a twinning agreement to promote cultural, social, and economic ties between the islands on March 10, 2026. Photo Credit: Government House

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Virgin Islands Board of Nurse Licensure told lawmakers it's running on what its Executive Director Carmen Vanterpool-Romney called a "skeletal budget, while fielding questions about new data that shows the territory has lost roughly 400 active nursing licenses, most of them registered nurses.       We speak with Danica David, whose book “Creative Callaloo: Art, Poems, and Recipes Inspired by the Virgin Islands” was one of two books selected to represent the territory at the Library of Congress’s National Book Festival this summer.       Jenifer O’Neal is now in the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Guaynabo MDC in Puerto Rico.        Listen to these stories and more.  Photo description:  Carmen Vanterpool-Romney, the Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Board of Nurse Licensure, testifies before lawmakers during a budget hearing on June 22, 2026.  Photo credit: US Virgin Islands Legislature

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Legislation sponsored by Senator Marise James and brought by the Office of Veterans Affairs to create a women veterans coordinator for the territory has advanced to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary.            WAPA says rotational outages in the St. Thomas/St. John District has ended after repairs to Unit 27, but customers should expect scheduled overnight outages next week as crews complete projects aimed at improving grid reliability.            VIPD made several arrests in cases involving extraditions, alleged vehicle thefts, assaults, and domestic violence across St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.            Listen to these stories and more.    Pictured: Senator Marise James  Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The department of Property and Procurement will host a virtual public hearing on the proposed Water Island hotel and marina development on Wednesday, the hearing follows legislative testimony from residents who called for greater transparency, stronger safeguards, and additional public input before the project moves forward.     Kahiyla Charles, 21, has been arrested in connection with the violent assault captured on video outside the Red Hook ferry terminal following St. John Celebration festivities.     FEMA has approved more than $1.3 million to repair Friedensfeld Moravian Church in Kingshill, St. Croix, through its Public Assistance Program.     Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Property and Procurement Assistant Commissioner Vincent Richards. Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: We speak with University of the Virgin Islands President Safiya George and Board Chair Henry Smock as the threat to accreditation looms. Following a series of violent incidents during the St. John Celebration and at the Urman V. Fredericks Marine Terminal in Red Hook, St. Thomas, on Tuesday, Senator Kenneth Gittens is calling for tougher enforcement, stronger prosecution, and increased police visibility. Emancipation Day will be marked across the Virgin Islands with a series of events honoring the territory's history and culture, including St. John's annual Cry for Freedom historical play, St. Croix's Fort to Fort Walk to Freedom, and the Ten Sleepless Knights Folklife Festival's Quelbe Tramp and Grand Quadrille Dance. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: University of the Virgin Islands President Safiya George and Board of Trustees Chairman Henry Smock are pictured during UVI's 2026 commencement ceremony at the Orville Kean campus on St. Thomas. Source: WTJX/Roshan Sookram

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Former OMB Director Jenifer O'Neal self-surrendered to U.S. Marshals today to begin serving her seven-year federal prison sentence after District Judge Mark Kearney denied her request to remain free while appealing her public corruption convictions. Sources tell WTJX that O'Neal is currently in the custody of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections and is booked at the John A. Bell Adult Correctional Facility on St. Croix. After Senator Marvin Blyden called for equal early voting days on St. John, Supervisor of Elections Caroline Fawkes defended the schedule, saying it balances voter access with turnout data and responsible use of public resources. The St. Thomas-St. John district is on a rotational power schedule today as WAPA's unreliability continues. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Former OMB Director Jenifer O'Neal (center) arrives at the Ron de Lugo Federal Building to surrender to U.S. Marshals and begin serving her seven-year prison sentence. She is flanked by her son, Jafari Daniel (left), and her friend Emmet Prevost.   Source: WTJX/Roshan Sookram  

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed:  Defense attorneys for Carlton Dowe, the former Virgin Islands Port Authority executive director charged with bank fraud, asked a federal judge for additional time to review the voluminous discovery material to determine whether they will pursue a plea deal. Police apprehended 22-year-old Jahnigh Gonsalves who was wanted in connection to a shooting that occurred on St. Croix yesterday that left two people wounded. And Senator Marvin Blyden is calling on the Elections System of the Virgin Islands to address what he says is an unequal early voting schedule for the island of St. John. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Carlton Dowe speaks at a ceremony at the Austin “babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal on December 17, 2025. Photo Credit: U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Court filings tied to the arrest of 48-year-old Brian Schooler provide more information on the homicide that occurred at WMJR Service Station Friday evening. Lawmakers express concern over more than a million dollars set aside for youth sports nonprofits that is sitting unclaimed, noting the importance of youth programming in combating rising crime. And the Virgin Islands Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance after two jewelry store robberies occurred on St. Thomas over the weekend. Listen to these stories and more.     Pictured: 48-year-old Brian Schooler, arrested for first-degree murder following a shooting at a St. Croix gas station on June 26.   Photo Credit: Virgin Islands Police Department

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Demolition is now underway at the former Addelita Cancryn Junior High School as the first phase of preparations for the long-awaited Charlotte Amalie Harbor dredging project. Police have identified the man found fatally shot along a roadway in Mahogany Run as 34-year-old Michiah Morton as investigators continue searching for leads in the St. Thomas homicide. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is rejecting airline criticism of the territory's airport redevelopment plan, insisting the project has already been scaled back and will move forward despite continued opposition from major carriers. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Aerial view of the former Addelita Cancryn Junior High School on St. Thomas, where demolition is underway as part of the first phase of the Charlotte Amalie Harbor dredging project. Once cleared, the site will be used to store and transport dredged material from the harbor redevelopment. Source: Virgin Islands Port Authority

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: VIFEMS Director Antonio Stevens says the department has reached out to the Justice Department to strengthen communication with the courts and agencies after lawmakers questioned why a former firefighter continued receiving paychecks months after being sentenced to prison. Police are investigating the discovery of a deceased man found early this morning beside a vehicle in the Mahogany Run Villas area of St. Thomas. Senate Vice President Kenneth Gittens is proposing emergency legislation to temporarily consolidate territorial law enforcement personnel under VIPD command in response to the recent surge in violent crime across the Virgin Islands. Listen to these stories and more.    Pictured: VIFEMS Director Antonio Stevens testifies on St. Croix before the Senate Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance during consideration of the department's proposed $34 million Fiscal Year 2027 budget.   Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: As Governor Albert Bryan renews calls for a healthcare funding referendum, community health centers are reporting nearly $13 million annually in uncompensated care and asking lawmakers for additional budget support. A man on St. Croix accused of operating without a valid contractor's license and misusing more than $181,000 in renovation payments is facing multiple fraud-related charges. Emergency management officials are urging residents to prepare for elevated heat, Saharan dust, and intermittent showers this week while reminding the public that a territory-wide burn ban remains in effect due to dry conditions. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Masserae Sprauve Webster, CEO of Frederiksted Health Care Inc. and Dr. Tess G. Richards, Executive Director of St. Thomas East End Medical Center Cooperation testified before lawmakers that growing losses in Medicaid coverage are driving more patients into self-pay status, increasing the financial burden on clinics that provide care regardless of a patient's ability to pay.   Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: We speak with WAPA CEO Karl Knight following concerns raised by PSC consultants about the Authority’s dual-fuel Wärtsilä generators, rejecting claims the units were an experimental or ill-advised purchase, arguing that fuel-efficiency gains have come with reliability tradeoffs. A local healthcare provider and three individuals are facing allegations of Medicaid fraud after the Virgin Islands Department of Justice filed a civil lawsuit claiming false Medicaid billing practices and violations of territorial law. Police are thanking community members who helped stop an alleged drunk driver accused of causing a fatal chain-reaction crash on Veterans Drive that claimed the life of a visiting tourist and injured another pedestrian. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: WAPA CEO Karl Knight at WTJX’s St. Croix studio. Source: WTJX/Tom Eader

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Police are searching for several armed suspects following a daytime robbery at Cardow Jewelers on Main Street in St. Thomas. Police are also investigating the death of 69-year-old Philomen Winston, whose body was discovered this morning in the Historic Danish Cemetery in Hospital Ground on St. Thomas. Former CAHS principal Alcede Edwards is asking a federal judge to dismiss claims against him in a lawsuit alleging he failed to prevent sexual abuse by former track coach Alfredo Bruce Smith, arguing that a Virgin Islands law reviving expired childhood sexual abuse claims is unconstitutional. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Crime scene technicians secure evidence following a daytime robbery where masked individuals entered Cardow Jewelers on Main Street, threatened employees with weapons, smashed display cases, and fled with merchandise on motorbikes. Source: WTJX/Dante Morón

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: 55-year-old Michelle Donastorg has been arrested on charges including vehicular homicide, driving under the influence, and reckless endangerment after police state she drove onto a sidewalk on Veterans Drive killing one pedestrian and seriously injuring another. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. urged Congress to address longstanding federal disparities affecting Virgin Islanders during testimony before the U.S. Senate, highlighting challenges involving healthcare funding, federal benefits, economic development, and the high cost of living in the territory. The Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections celebrated rehabilitation and second chances during its 2026 Graduation and Recognition Ceremony, honoring incarcerated men and women who completed educational, vocational, and personal development programs while in custody. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Virgin Islands Police Department and Emergency Medical Services units responded on Wednesday, June 17, to the scene of a pedestrian-involved traffic accident along Veterans Drive on St. Thomas.   Source: WTJX/Isabelle Teare

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Former OMB Director Jenifer O’Neal has terminated her attorney, Dale Lionel Smith, and filed an appeal of her federal corruption conviction and seven-year prison sentence, while her co-defendant, former Police Commissioner Ray Martinez, has also formally appealed his conviction and 10-year sentence in the Mon Ethos public corruption case. Following three fatal shootings in a single day and five homicides within a week, Virgin Islands officials held a special press briefing urging residents to help investigators solve a growing number of gun violence cases. The Virgin Islands Port Authority has asked for permission to intervene in the government's eviction case against Island Laundries, arguing that legislation transferring ownership of the Subbase parcels to VIPA gives the Authority a direct legal interest in the dispute. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Attorney Dale Lionel Smith walks toward the courthouse in the Ron de Lugo Federal Building in St. Thomas to represent his client, former OMB Director Jenifer O'Neal, at her sentencing on June 11.   Source: WTJX/Roshan Sookram  

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Board of Elections Chairman Raymond Williams responds to a colleague's email to Brett McClafferty's notice of appeal that recommends an emergency meeting be held to review the cases of all aspirants disqualified by Supervisor of Elections Caroline Fawkes. The Virgin Islands Police Department is investigating the fatal shooting of 45-year-old Rusiel Encarnacion, who died after being found with multiple gunshot wounds in the Whim area of St. Croix. Virgin Islands Sports Ambassador Michelle Smith earned valuable points for the University of Georgia at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, helping the Bulldogs secure their third consecutive national title. Listen to these stories and more.    Pictured: Raymond Williams chairs a Board of Elections special meeting on June 3 at the Elections System of the Virgin Islands office on St. Thomas.   Source: WTJX/Jordan Petty

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Lawmakers approved a comprehensive firearms legislation that would overhaul the Virgin Islands gun licensing system, establish new restrictions on certain weapons and accessories, and address constitutional concerns raised in ongoing federal litigation. The Virgin Islands Police Department is seeking public assistance in the fatal shooting investigation of 15-year-old Charlotte Amalie High School student Tre'Vante Etienne, whose death has prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for community action against gun violence. Police are investigating separate shooting incidents on St. Thomas and St. Croix, including one that left a 16-year-old boy hospitalized. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Attorney General Gordon Rhea testifies before the Legislature during consideration of comprehensive firearms reform legislation.   Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Assistant U.S. Attorney Cherrisse Amaro, justified the prosecution’s sentencing recommendation of former OMB Director Jenifer O’Neal who was convicted in her public corruption case; we hear from our reporter Isabelle Teare who was in the courtroom. Fire officials are investigating the cause of an early morning blaze in Estate Mariendahl on St. Thomas that destroyed six trucks but caused no injuries or damage to nearby structures. Lawmakers have advanced an amended bill redirecting dormant first-time homebuyer funds toward Williams Delight homeownership assistance, the VI Slice program, and a revived Cistern and Slab initiative with VIHFA. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Assistant U.S. Attorney Cherrisse Amaro arrives at the Ron de Lugo Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in St. Thomas ahead of the sentencing hearing for former OMB Director Jenifer O’Neal. Source: WTJX/Roshan Sookram

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: A Senate committee has advanced legislation that would allow the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to suspend licenses for repeat traffic offenders without first going through the courts. Ferry passengers traveling between St. Thomas and St. John will pay an additional 66 cents per ticket after regulators approved a temporary fuel surcharge tied to rising diesel costs. Federal authorities have charged a man on St. Thomas after investigators allegedly discovered nearly 500 rounds of undeclared ammunition in checked luggage arriving from Florida.  Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Senator Avery Lewis, and Bureau of Motor Vehicles Director Barbara Jackson-McIntosh, sitting, participate in a Senate Homeland Security Committee hearing on legislation that would authorize the BMV to suspend the licenses of repeat traffic offenders under the territory’s traffic points system.   Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands  

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Former Property & Procurement Commissioner Anthony Thomas addressed the court in support of his former boss David Whitaker — the federal government's main witness in a string of corruption convictions — who was sentenced to 22 months in prison today. Police are investigating the death of 43-year-old Julia Reynolds, whose body was recovered from waters near Salt Pond Bay on St. John. Mario Felix, 36, pleaded guilty in federal court of causing the attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl after investigators linked him to a package containing approximately 800 fentanyl pills intercepted in the U.S. mail. Listen to these stories and more.    Pictured: Former Commissioner of Property & Procurement Anthony Thomas who currently serves at the Chief Administrative Officer for the VI Water and Power Authority, arrives at the Ron de Lugo Federal Building for the sentencing of David Whitaker.     Source: WTJX/Roshan Sookram

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Joanie Phillip, a 6th grade teacher at Ricardo Richards Elementary School, has been named the Virgin Islands State Teacher of the Year. Dispute is growing over the Virgin Islands Port Authority’s proposed airport redevelopment plan, as major airlines challenge the billion-dollar public-private partnership while VIPA defends the project and its ongoing negotiations. A St. Croix woman is facing multiple charges after police say a domestic dispute escalated into an alleged assault involving knives, property damage, and a forced entry into an apartment. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Newly crowned 2027–2028 Virgin Islands State Teacher of the Year Joanie Phillip of Ricardo Richards Elementary School smiles as she is sashed during a recognition ceremony at Government House on St. Croix. Source: VIDE

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Students on St. John now have access to the territory's first STEAM Innovation Center, a new educational hub designed to prepare young Virgin Islanders for careers in technology, arts, engineering, artificial intelligence, and other emerging fields. Police are investigating a deadly shooting at Luna Bar in Peter's Rest on St. Croix that left two men dead and two others wounded, marking the territory's 16th and 17th homicides of the year. Detectives are seeking information after armed, masked suspects reportedly forced their way into a Bovoni residence, assaulted the homeowner, and stole cash and jewelry before fleeing. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Students explore hands-on science and technology opportunities at the newly opened STEAM Innovation Center at Julius E. Sprauve School on St. John.   Source: Government House of the USVI

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: University of Georgia standout and Virgin Islands athlete Michelle Smith is headed to the NCAA Championships after another dominant performance, while fellow Virgin Islands athletes continue to shine at the collegiate level. We recap day one (June 4) in the petition for injunction for protection against domestic violence filed against former Senator and delegate to Congress candidate Janelle Sarauw with actual courtroom testimony; the judge making his decision today. Motorists on St. Croix are being advised to expect temporary delays this weekend as crews return to complete final roadway striping and lane markings at the East Airport Road intersection along the Melvin Evans Highway. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Virgin Islands Sports Ambassador Michelle Smith celebrates qualifying for the 2026 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships after advancing in both the 400-meter hurdles and the 4x400-meter relay at the NCAA East Regional Championships while competing for the University of Georgia. Source: The Virgin Islands Track & Field Federation

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: A St. John man is facing charges including vehicular homicide and child neglect after investigators concluded his six-year-old daughter was not properly restrained when a water truck overturned and slid down an embankment, resulting in her death earlier this year. A federal appeals court has revived charges against Richardson Dangleben Jr. in the 2023 killing of VIPD Detective Delberth Phipps Jr. while leaving in place a lower court ruling that prevents prosecutors from seeking the death penalty. Senate Vice President Kenneth Gittens is demanding accountability after learning auditors conducting WAPA's long-awaited forensic audit allegedly encountered delays, missing records, and resistance while seeking information. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Emergency responders work at the scene of a January 31 crash on Centerline Road on St. John after a water truck overturned, struck a utility pole, and plunged approximately 300 feet down an embankment.   Source: VIPD

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Antilles School seniors Halina Diehl and Emma Walters are taking their sailing talents to the collegiate level, earning spots on the sailing teams at Cornell University and the University of Pennsylvania. Investigators are working to determine the cause of a vessel fire at Compass Point Marina in St. Thomas that left one dog dead and damaged a docked boat. A multimillion-dollar Water Island development proposal, that the administration says would create jobs and improve infrastructure while preserving public access to Honeymoon Beach, is headed to the Legislature for review. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Antilles School seniors Emma Walters, left, and Halina Diehl pose on campus after announcing their collegiate sailing commitments to the University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University respectively. Source: WTJX/ Dante Morón

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Frustrated residents took their concerns directly to lawmakers today, staging a protest outside the Capitol Building on St. Thomas and demanding accountability from the Water and Power Authority. A coordinated rescue operation involving the Coast Guard and local emergency responders saved a boater after a catamaran caught fire and sank south of St. Thomas. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is bringing lawmakers, horsemen, and gaming officials to the table on June 12 as the administration seeks public input and stakeholder feedback on a proposed agreement to restore horse racing on St. Croix. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: A protester displays a brown paper bag labeled “Spoiled Food — Brought to You by WAPA” during a demonstration outside the Legislature's Capitol Building in St. Thomas, where residents expressed frustration over food losses and other hardships caused by recent power outages in the St. Thomas/St. John district. Source: WTJX/Richard Sturdivant

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: WAPA CEO Karl Knight says a fuel valve malfunction at the Randolph Harley Power Plant over the weekend triggered a cascade of equipment failures that left thousands without electricity. The latest WAPA outage has also intensified scrutiny of the utility's finances and operations, prompting renewed demands from senators for transparency, accountability, and potential federal assistance. Police are investigating a weekend double homicide in Lindbergh Bay after two men were fatally shot and a third person wounded, pushing the territory’s homicide count to 14 so far this year. United Airlines will launch the only nonstop service between St. Croix and the New York Tristate area in October, providing a direct connection between Henry E. Rohlsen Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: WAPA CEO Karl Knight speaks during a press briefing regarding the weekend blackout in the St. Thomas/St. John district. Source: WTJX/Tom Eader

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority hosted its first Lineworker Exhibition & Festival at the Agricultural Fairgrounds to showcase the skills, safety practices, and everyday work of its linemen, while also honoring crews who helped restore power in Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa. District Judge Mark Kearny upheld the public corruption convictions of former Police Commissioner Ray Martinez and former OMB Director Jenifer O’Neal, rejecting their efforts to overturn the jury’s verdicts ahead of their respective June 9 and 11 sentencing. The Virgin Islands Parole Board is preparing to hear parole applications from 35 inmates housed in correctional facilities in Mississippi, Virginia, and the territory during a week of hearings scheduled for late June. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: WAPA lineworkers demonstrate climbing and utility restoration techniques during the Authority’s first Lineworker Exhibition and Festival at the Agricultural Fairgrounds on St. Croix. Source: WTJX/Glenroy Roberts

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: For the first time since the expansion of the Court, the Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands has its full complement following the legislature's confirmation of Judge Denise Francois, while attorney Renee Andre received confirmation to the Superior Court bench in the St. Thomas–St. John district. A constitutional advisor says parts of the proposed Virgin Islands constitution may invite federal legal challenges, as delegates continue the territory’s sixth effort to adopt a constitution. The Veterans Drive Improvement Project on St. Thomas has secured its final major federal permit, allowing the waterfront and transportation improvement project to move closer to the solicitation and procurement phase. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Associate Justice Denise M. Francois and Judge Renee M. Andre Source: Judiciary of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Virgin Islands Equestrian Training Center broke ground on St. Croix, with officials saying it will give young riders a structured place to train while opening doors to careers in the horse racing industry. Jed JohnHope responds to being disqualified from running for delegate to Congress after failing to meet the mandatory signature requirement on his petition papers. And lawmakers moved four bills forward in a Committee on Rules and Judiciary hearing, one of which will rename a stretch of Hospital Gade “Detective Delbert’s Phipps Jr., Memorial Street,” in honor of the fallen VIPD detective. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: Senator Angel Bolques, Jr., one of the sponsors of the legislation that championed the project, stands with a group of young riders at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Virgin Islands Equestrian Training Center on St. Croix. Photo source: Senator Angel Bolques, Jr.

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Senator Kurt Vialet is demanding immediate action from the Departments of Agriculture and Human Services to process long-delayed Act 8995 pay raises for some of the government’s lowest-paid employees, calling the months-long holdup an unacceptable failure of accountability and respect. A St. Croix woman is facing attempted murder and domestic violence-related charges after she allegedly struck the father of her child intentionally with her vehicle during a confrontation in Christiansted town. During USVI 2026 Economic Development Summit, organized by the Office of Senator Hubert L. Frederick, Port Hamilton Refining and Transportation Director David Johnson proclaimed that the St. Croix refinery will restart and could become a power provider for the island. Listen to these stories and more.    Pictured: Senate Majority Leader Kurt Vialet is calling for immediate action to address delays in the full implementation of the government employee salary increases mandated under Act 8995.   Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands   

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: For the first time in 35 years both valedictorian and salutatorian honors were male students as the Charlotte Amalie High School Class of 2026 celebrated academic excellence, scholarships, championships, and historic milestones during commencement exercises. The Adult Continuing Education program on St. Thomas celebrated 38 adult learners with some graduates overcoming homelessness, language barriers, health struggles, and other life challenges to earn their diplomas. VIFEMS is investigating the cause of a Wednesday afternoon structural fire in Estate Nazareth that left an apartment uninhabitable. Listen to these stories and more.   Pictured: CAHS valedictorian Mirza Baig, right, and salutatorian Daniel Nganga, left, applaud during their commencement exercise for the Class of 2026, marking the first time in 35 years that both top academic honors were earned by male students.   Source: Virgin Islands Department of Education 

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Ivanna Eudora Kean High School Class of 2026 celebrated 159 graduates, who collectively received more than $7.3 million in scholarships and financial aid. Meanwhile, 151 students graduated from the Raphael O. Wheatley Skill Center with many already securing jobs across differing fields. A Superior Court judge has ruled that 16-year-old Angelo Javier Carmona is competent to stand trial as an adult in connection with the 2025 killing of comedian Jordan Jones on the Christiansted boardwalk, finding that while the teen lacks legal knowledge and experience, he still has a rational understanding of the proceedings and can assist in his own defense. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Graduates from Ivanna Eudora Kean High School’s Class of 2026 celebrate and turn their tassels during a commencement ceremony inside the school gymnasium. Source: Legislature of the Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Caribbean sports officials are celebrating the successful launch of a new regional Under-23 3x3 basketball tournament in the British Virgin Islands, aimed at expanding youth competition, referee training, and international basketball opportunities across the Eastern Caribbean. Construction is now underway on WAPA’s federally funded Mahogany Estate Water Rehabilitation Project on St. Thomas. Listen to these stories and more. The Public Services Commission’s St. John ferry rate case hearing examiner, Jed JohnHope, is pushing back against criticism over his billing practices while maintaining that ferry operators received millions in excessive compensation under the current rate system. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Teams from St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the British Virgin Islands pose with their medals following the inaugural ANOCES Under-23 3X3 Basketball Tournament at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Tortola on May 17. St. Kitts and Nevis captured the gold medal, with St. Vincent and the Grenadines finishing with silver, and the host nation British Virgin Islands taking the bronze medal. Source: Association of National Olympic Committees of the OECS (ANOCES)

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Virgin Islands is sending off a standout Class of 2026, as the St. Croix Educational Complex graduates with a cohort of 217 students marked by record honors, STEM and police pre‑cadet achievements. St. Croix Central High School celebrated its “Iconic Class of 2026,” sending off 152 graduates — nearly half of them honor students — after a year marked by major academic gains, undefeated basketball seasons, and new honor societies. Virgin Islands standouts Michelle Smith, Sofia Swindell, and Saraiah Walkes turned in big performances on the collegiate championship stage, elevating the territory’s growing footprint in national track and field. New court filings show Brett “Mac” McClafferty is asking a judge to let him travel to St. Croix to campaign for delegate to Congress while he awaits trial on local fraud charges. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Graduates from the St. Croix Educational Complex Class of 2026 celebrate during a commencement ceremony held in the school’s gymnasium, where 217 seniors crossed the stage, including more than 130 honor students. Source: VI Department of Education

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: UVI’s 2026 St. Croix commencement saw nearly 300 students graduate across more than 30-degree programs, while the university also awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree to longtime St. Croix Avis publisher Rena Brodhurst. Police on St. Thomas are investigating the territory’s 12th homicide of the year after 45-year-old Luciano Warrell Jr. was fatally shot in the Estate Tutu area. The V.I. Justice Department’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit has arrested a St. Thomas woman, accusing her of financially exploiting and neglecting an elderly Alzheimer’s patient. Pictured: UVI President Dr. Safiya George recognizes longtime St. Croix Avis owner/publisher Dr. Rena Brodhurst after conferring upon her an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree during the University of the Virgin Islands’ 2026 commencement ceremony for the Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix. Source: Legislature of the US Virgin Islands

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: UVI celebrated its Class of 2026 at its 62nd Commencement Ceremony on St. Thomas, where Virgin Islands Soca star and cultural ambassador Adam O was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters for his artistic achievements and community impact. Thousands of St. Croix residents are expected to experience a scheduled power outage tomorrow as WAPA crews carry out electrical infrastructure upgrades and system improvements. DPNR is kicking off National Boating Safety Week tomorrow with a free boating safety class at the Florence A. Williams Public Library on St. Croix. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Soca artist and cultural ambassador Adam O celebrates after receiving an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree during UVI’s 62nd Commencement Ceremony on the Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas. Source: WTJX/Roshan Sookram

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The U.S. Coast Guard says approximately 200 gallons of diesel fuel was removed from the sunken vessel Lucky Me near Altona Lagoon on St. Croix. Police have identified the victim in Wednesday morning’s fatal shooting on St. Thomas as 66-year-old Aubrey L. Frett as investigators continue searching for leads in the territory’s 11th homicide of the year. Ferry operators are challenging tens of thousands of dollars in billing charges tied to the St. John ferry rate case by hearing examiner and potential gubernatorial candidate Jed JohnHope. Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works is defending the operational use of government-owned ferries and signaling support for a possible fuel surcharge on non-resident ferry passengers. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Boaters and marine traffic are being urged to use caution around Altona Lagoon following the 42-foot vessel Lucky Me sinking for unknown reasons. Source: Facebook page of U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Police are asking for the public’s help in locating missing 33-year-old Anna Belle Bettger, who was last seen in the Richmond area of Christiansted. The territory recorded yet another homicide after a man was fatally shot overnight near Haabets Gade and Simmonds Alley on St. Thomas, bringing the territory’s homicide count to 11 so far this year. We speak with Senator Marvin Blyden who defends his call for an emergency economic hearing amid rising fuel costs and ongoing conflict in the Middle East, following a statement by Senate President Milton Potter who said many of those concerns have been addressed by the Legislature in a March 2025 Committee of the Whole hearing. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Police say Anna Belle Bettger was last seen in the Richmond area on May 11 wearing a pink and white bath robe during the morning hours. Source: Facebook page of Anna Belle Bettger

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: Police on St. Croix are investigating a deadly shooting in Mon Bijou that has pushed the territory’s homicide count to 10 so far this year. Federal prosecutors have filed motions defending the continuation of civil forfeiture cases tied to Davidson and Sasha Charlemagne, arguing the actions are legally justified even as the related criminal fraud case proceeds toward trial. Two women have been charged with assault and weapons offenses after a violent stabbing at a Lovenlund apartment left two victims injured. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: VIPD officers and Crime Scene Investigation personnel respond this morning to a fatal shooting scene in Mon Bijou, where 47-year-old Kaleem O. Iles was later pronounced dead after suffering multiple gunshot wounds. Source: WTJX/Jamar Hewlett

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The Virgin Islands Department of Justice has announced the modular morgue units have finally been delivered to their installation site in St. Croix. We speak with Attorney General Gordon Rhea, who says work is now underway. The Virgin Islands Police Department says they don’t believe the shooting incident in Frederiksted that left multiple spent cases was a targeted attack on anyone, but the commander of St. Croix’s Criminal Investigation Bureau says this kind of incident is becoming a frequent occurrence. And The University of the Virgin Islands is warning that its free tuition program could be suspended as soon as this summer — unless the government comes through with millions of dollars in new funding. Listen to these stories and more.  Pictured: A modular morgue unit being delivered to its designated site in the Golden Grove area on St. Croix. Photo Credit: Virgin Islands Department of Justice

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: The owners of Little St. James are suing several men and Tennessee-based nonprofit, We Fight Monsters, LTD, alleging they orchestrated a planned trespassing operation on the private island tied to online conspiracy content surrounding Jeffrey Epstein. Lawmakers advanced legislation that would formally incorporate mental health education into Virgin Islands schools. The Elections System is urging residents to check their voter registration status after releasing its latest inactive voters list ahead of the 2026 election cycle. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: Benjamin Owen, left, and Ryan Dalton are shown in a still image taken from a video posted to Owen’s Facebook page, both of whom are now named as defendants in a civil lawsuit tied to an April trespassing incident on Little St. James. Source: Facebook page of Benjamin Owen, cofounder of We Fight Monsters, LTD

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: As federal agencies investigate a fatal boating collision involving a Customs and Border Protection vessel near Haulover Cut, St. Thomas Rescue conducted diving operations in the channel today while friends of longtime Water Island resident Shawn Leass spoke with WTJX about his life, the unanswered questions surrounding the crash that resulted in his death, and growing safety concerns within the local boating community. Federal prosecutors filed an opposition motion today against Lawrence Turnbull’s attempt to dismiss criminal charges, after defense attorney Clive Rivers argued that prosecutors violated Turnbull’s constitutional rights by failing to secure an indictment. WAPA is preparing to begin a major underground electrical infrastructure project in downtown Christiansted aimed at improving long-term reliability and storm resilience. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: St. Thomas Rescue crews conducted marine operations today near Haulover Cut as federal investigators continue probing the fatal collision involving a Customs and Border Protection vessel that claimed the life of longtime Water Island resident Shawn Leass. Source: WTJX/Jose Bultes

On today’s WTJX Radio NewsFeed: A nationwide recall has been issued for select batches of a2 Platinum infant formula after testing detected a potentially harmful toxin linked to bacterial contamination. Former Senator Ronald Russell is being remembered for his decades of public service, legal advocacy, and civic leadership following news of his passing. Roadwork at the East Airport intersection on St. Croix is expected to cause detours and traffic delays this week as DPW begins an asphalt rehabilitation project along the Melvin Evans Highway tomorrow. Breeze Airways is launching the first-ever nonstop flights between Tampa and St. Thomas starting December 16. Listen to these stories and more. Pictured: The a2 Milk Company has voluntarily recalled three batches of its a2 Platinum Premium infant formula for babies 0 to 12 months sold nationwide through the company’s website, Amazon, and select retail stores. Source: a2 Milk USA Facebook Page