CHRISTIANSTED — When a St. Croix man saw two men stealing his landscaping equipment with his own flat-bed trailer he immediately gave chase in his vehicle and was shot at by the suspects while driving. But the suspects eventually abandoned their take near the south shore and fled on foot.
Officers were notified of a trailer with landscaping equipment that was stolen from a residence in Recovery Welcome at 3:54 p.m. Monday, the Virgin Islands Police Department said.
The owner of the trailer stated to police that he arrived home to find an unfamiliar vehicle, a red 2007 Dodge Ram, with two unknown males in it, the VIPD said.
“Once the suspects saw the resident, they left the area in the truck with the victim’s trailer in tow,” VIPD spokesman Toby Derima said. “The victim gave chase and called police. “
During the chase, the suspects fired gunshots at the victim, before they eventually abandoned the pick-up truck in the area Estate Bugby Hole, Derima said
The stolen items were recovered, and it was discovered that the truck operated by the suspects was previously reported stolen, he said.
The victim said the suspects had dark complexions, were dressed in dark clothing and wore masks.
Police are asking anyone who has information on this incident, classified as a 1st Degree Reckless Endangerment, to call 911, the Crime Tip Line at (340) 778-4950, or Crime Stoppers USVI at (800) 222-8477. Remember, if you see something, say something.