AGP Executive Report

St. Croix Gun Violence: A 34-year-old man, Anthony Hazelwood, was killed after multiple gunshots at Croixville Apartments in Frederiksted on July 2; VIPD says the call center was flooded around 2:15 p.m. and EMTs couldn’t revive him, marking another spike in territory homicides. BVI Child Injury Update: On Tortola’s Major Bay, police say a young child fell from a balcony on June 20, was taken to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, and is now recovering; investigators are coordinating with Health and Social Development. BVI Health Leadership: BVI Health Services Authority nurse leaders (nurse managers, supervisors, charge nurses) completed a three-day workshop (June 22–24) focused on improving patient care through stronger frontline leadership. Public Health & Aging Support: AARP’s Community Challenge continues to fund quick local projects nationwide, including home modifications and safer, more connected community spaces—efforts that support older adults’ health and independence. Beach Safety—Sunscreen Myth: An opinion piece warns that “reef-safe” sunscreen claims can be misleading, pointing to UV filter chemicals that may harm coral life and microalgae. Food Safety Recall: FDA reports Salmonella-linked moringa leaf powder supplement recalls, urging consumers to check for specific lots and request refunds.

Public Health & Safety: A child was injured after reportedly falling from a balcony at a Major Bay residence and was taken to Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital; police say the child has been discharged and is recovering, with investigations ongoing and support coordinated with Health and Social Development. Healthcare Workforce: BVI Health Services Authority nurse leaders (nurse managers, supervisors, charge nurses) completed a three-day leadership and transformation workshop focused on improving care delivery, team engagement, and quality improvement. Emergency Response: VIFEMS abruptly closed the Fortuna Fire Station on St. Thomas “until further notice,” raising concerns about coverage and response times for West End residents. Community & Aging Well: AARP’s Community Challenge continues to fund age-friendly improvements across the region, including projects that boost mobility, accessibility, and safer walkability—efforts that align with local wellness and healthy aging goals. Food Safety Alert: The FDA recalled multiple shelf-stable dietary supplements containing imported moringa leaf powder after Salmonella illness links, urging consumers to check labels and request refunds. Violence & Health Impact: St. Croix saw a major shooting investigation after a domestic dispute escalated into a double shooting, leaving two people hospitalized with gunshot wounds.

BVI Health Services Authority: Nurse leaders at the BVIHSA just finished a three-day Healthcare Transformation and Leadership Development workshop (June 22–24) to strengthen unit-level leadership, quality improvement, and safer, more patient-centered care. Public Safety & Health Access: The VIFEMS Fortuna Fire Station on St. Thomas has been closed “until further notice,” raising concerns about emergency response coverage while residents are told to call 911. Child Safety (Tortola): Police are investigating a June 20 incident in Major Bay where a young child reportedly fell from a balcony, was taken to Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital, and is now recovering. Food Safety Warning: The FDA says certain shelf-stable dietary supplements containing imported moringa leaf powder have been recalled due to Salmonella risk, urging consumers to check homes and request refunds. Violence & Community Impact (St. Croix/USVI): A St. Croix service-station shooting is under investigation after police say 15 rounds were fired, and a suspect has been arrested and charged. Wellness Tourism (Caribbean): Jamaica’s JACANA unveiled a Caribbean Wellness Platform built around its organic farm, botanical products, and nature-based experiences.

Child Safety: RVIPF is investigating a June 20 incident in Major Bay where a child reportedly fell from a balcony, was taken to Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital, and is now discharged and recovering. Nursing Leadership: BVI Health Services Authority nurse managers and charge nurses completed a three-day Healthcare Transformation and Leadership Development workshop (June 22–24) focused on improving unit-level care, quality improvement, and patient outcomes. Public Health Alerts: The FDA issued a recall for shelf-stable dietary supplements containing imported moringa leaf powder after Salmonella illnesses linked to the products rose to 119 cases across 37 states—consumers are urged to check labels and request refunds. Emergency Response Coverage: VIFEMS announced the Fortuna Fire Station on St. Thomas is closed “until further notice,” raising concerns about response times for West End residents. Violence & Health Impact: St. Croix police arrested Brian Schooler in connection with a June 26 gas station shooting that killed Pedro Melendez Sanes; the case adds to the territory’s homicide count. Wellness Tourism: JACANA launched a Caribbean Wellness Platform in Jamaica, bundling botanical personal care, plant medicines, nature-based experiences, and apothecary retail under one brand.

Food Safety: The FDA says recalled shelf-stable dietary supplements made with imported moringa leaf powder are linked to Salmonella illnesses, with cases reported in 37 states and reaching 119; consumers are urged to check lots and throw products away. Local Health Services: VIFEMS abruptly closed the Fortuna Fire Station on St. Thomas “until further notice,” raising concerns about emergency response coverage for West End residents. Violence & Public Health: On St. Croix, police arrested 48-year-old Brian Schooler after a ShotSpotter- and 911-reported shooting at the WMJR Service Station that killed 50-year-old Pedro Melendez Sanes; charges include first-degree murder and assault. Wellness Tourism: Jamaica’s JACANA launched a Caribbean Wellness Platform, bundling botanical personal care, plant medicines, nature-based experiences, and apothecary retail under one brand. Community Care: Gideons of the British Virgin Islands donated New Testament Bibles to BVI Health Services Authority for patient rooms and clinics, supporting whole-person comfort. Health System Funding: AARP announced $8.3M in Community Challenge grants nationwide, including support for home modifications and aging-in-place projects.

Public Safety: Governor Albert Bryan Jr. signed an order temporarily placing peace officers under VIPD command through July 12 to boost coverage during heightened activity, including St. John Celebration events. Emergency Services: VIFEMS abruptly closed the Fortuna Fire Station on St. Thomas “until further notice,” raising concerns about response times for West End residents. Violence & Health Impact: St. Croix recorded its 12th homicide of the year after a fatal Sion Farm service-station shooting; police say ShotSpotter and 911 alerts helped lead to the arrest of suspect Brian Schooler. Wellness & Aging: AARP announced $194,000 in Georgia Community Challenge grants for projects that improve mobility, housing, digital access, disaster preparedness, and social connection for older adults—efforts that echo the kind of community health support many islands need. Whole-Person Care: Gideons VI donated New Testament Bibles to BVIHSA for patient rooms and community clinics, aiming to support comfort and encouragement alongside medical care. Caribbean Wellness Tourism: Jamaica’s JACANA launched a Caribbean Wellness Platform, bundling botanical care, plant medicines, nature-based experiences, and apothecary retail under one brand.

Public Safety Staffing Boost: Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. signed an executive order temporarily placing peace officers from several executive agencies under VIPD command through July 12, aiming to strengthen territory-wide operations during heightened public activity, including St. John Celebration events. Violence Update (St. Croix): VIPD arrested 48-year-old Brian Schooler in connection with the June 26 fatal shooting at the WMJR Service Station in Sion Farm; the victim was identified as 50-year-old Pedro Melendez Sanes, and Schooler faces charges including first-degree murder. Emergency Services Disruption (St. Thomas): VIFEMS issued an abrupt notice closing Fortuna Fire Station on St. Thomas “until further notice,” raising concerns about coverage while residents are told to call 911. Whole-Person Care (BVIHSA): Gideons of the British Virgin Islands donated New Testament Bibles to BVIHSA for patient rooms, community clinics, and staff pocket editions. Wellness Tourism (Caribbean): JACANA launched a Caribbean Wellness Platform, bundling botanical personal care, plant medicines, nature-based experiences, and apothecary retail under one brand.

Public Safety & Health Access: VIFEMS abruptly closed the Fortuna Fire Station on St. Thomas “until further notice,” raising concerns about emergency coverage for the West End while residents are told to call 911. Violence & Community Health: On St. Croix, police say ShotSpotter and 911 calls led to a homicide investigation after 15 shots were reported at the WMJR Service Station in Sion Farm; 50-year-old Pedro Melendez Sanes was found unresponsive, and 48-year-old Brian Schooler was arrested and charged. Cruise-Related Medical Risk: A Royal Caribbean passenger died after a medical emergency during a snorkeling excursion off St. Maarten; details of the episode weren’t released. Whole-Person Care: Gideons VI donated New Testament Bibles to BVIHSA for patient rooms and community clinics, aiming to support patients, visitors, and healthcare staff. Wellness Tourism Growth: Jamaica’s JACANA launched a Caribbean Wellness Platform, bundling botanical care, plant medicines, nature-based experiences, and apothecary retail under one brand. Local Health Infrastructure: A federal report highlights how long repair backlogs in federal buildings can worsen health and safety risks, including issues like leaks and broken elevators.

Emergency Response & Safety: VIFEMS abruptly closed the Fortuna Fire Station (Tango Company) on St. Thomas “until further notice,” raising concerns about backup coverage and response times for West End residents. Violence & Community Health: USVI police arrested 48-year-old Brian Schooler in the fatal Sion Farm service station shooting; the victim was identified as 50-year-old Pedro Melendez Sanes, and charges include first-degree murder and assault. Tourism Health Risks: A Royal Caribbean passenger died after a snorkeling trip off St. Maarten following a medical episode; details on the cause and whether the tour was cruise-arranged remain unclear. Wellness Tourism Growth: Jamaica’s JACANA launched a Caribbean Wellness Platform, bundling botanical personal care, plant medicines, nature-based experiences, and apothecary retail—aiming to position the region as a global natural-healing destination. Whole-Person Care: Gideons VI donated New Testament Bibles to BVIHSA for patient rooms and community clinics, supporting comfort and encouragement for patients, visitors, and healthcare staff. Disaster Relief Watch: A UK volunteer rescue team headed to earthquake-hit Venezuela was stranded at Madrid airport for over 24 hours due to disrupted travel.

Violence & Public Safety (USVI): VIPD has arrested 48-year-old Brian Schooler in connection with Friday night’s fatal Sion Farm shooting near the WMJR Service Gas Station; police say ShotSpotter and multiple 911 calls led officers to find 50-year-old Pedro Melendez Sanes dead at the scene, and Schooler—described as a licensed firearm owner—was charged with first-degree murder and other offenses after being remanded for lack of bail. Community Health & Whole-Person Care (BVIHSA): Gideons of the British Virgin Islands donated New Testament Bibles to the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority for placement in patient rooms, community clinics, and staff pocket editions, supporting comfort and encouragement for patients and healthcare workers. Cruise Safety (St. Maarten): A Royal Caribbean passenger died during a snorkeling excursion after a medical emergency; the family chose to keep the body on the ship’s morgue rather than fly it home. Aging & Dementia Support (Virgin Islands): The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association’s work was called “critically important” as board members met to strengthen governance and strategy to better support people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia across the territory. Emergency Response (Coast Guard): Coast Guard units and local rescue teams saved a boater after a vessel fire near St. Thomas, transferring the survivor to EMS for transport to Charlotte Amalie. Wellness & Community (Caribbean): JACANA launched a Caribbean Wellness Platform tying botanical personal care, therapeutic plant medicines, and nature-based experiences under one brand as it expands regionally. Disaster Health (Venezuela): Reports continue to track rising earthquake casualties and injuries, with health officials describing patients arriving without vital signs at medical centers as rescue efforts continue.

Public Safety & Health Impact: St. Croix recorded its 12th homicide of the year after a fatal Sion Farm shooting near the WMJR Service Station; police say 911 calls and ShotSpotter alerts led responders to find 50-year-old Pedro Melendez Sanes unresponsive, with a suspect taken into custody as the investigation continues. More Violence in the Territory: On St. Thomas, VIPD is investigating the fatal shooting of 34-year-old Michiah Morton, found early Thursday near Mahogany Run Villas, with detectives tracing events from late Wednesday night. Aging & Dementia Support: The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association is getting a governance and strategy push led by Dr. L. Sauda Smith, who called its work “critically important” as more families face dementia across the islands. Community Wellness Funding: Rio Grande Hospital received an AARP Community Challenge grant to build an age-friendly “wellness route” with benches, shade, and outdoor “Wellness Moments” for adults 50+. Disaster Response Watch: A UK volunteer rescue team trying to reach earthquake-hit Venezuela says it’s been stranded at Madrid airport for over 24 hours, highlighting how health and emergency aid can get delayed during major crises. Water Safety: EPA announced over $25 million in grants to improve drinking water infrastructure in small and rural communities, including efforts to reduce PFAS and lead exposure.

Violence & Public Safety: A man was identified as Pedro Melendez Sanes after a fatal shooting near the WMJR Service Station in Sion Farm, St. Croix; VIPD says a suspect is in custody and the homicide count for 2026 is now 24. Violence & Public Safety: On St. Thomas, VIPD is investigating the death of 34-year-old Michiah Morton, found unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds near Mahogany Run Villas; police say the shooting likely happened late Wednesday night. Emergency Response: The Coast Guard, with St. Thomas and St. John Rescue units, rescued a boater after a vessel fire south of St. Thomas; the survivor was taken to Charlotte Amalie for care. Local Health & Aging: The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association says its mission is “critically important” as it plans to strengthen governance and support for people and families affected by dementia across the territory. Policy & Access to Care: A local commentary questions whether Virgin Islands residents are getting what they thought they paid for under NHI, focusing on the gap between what people believe is covered and what shows up in bills. Health Systems & Wellness: Rio Grande Hospital (Colorado) received an AARP Community Challenge grant to build an age-friendly “wellness route,” a reminder of how small, practical design changes can support healthier aging. Firearms Law: USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. signed a bill overhauling firearm licensing and registration to align with recent US Supreme Court rulings and reduce discretion in the process.

Public Safety (USVI): Coast Guard units rescued a boater after a vessel fire near St. Thomas; the survivor was taken to Charlotte Amalie for medical care. Local Health & Aging: The Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association says its mission is “critically important” as it plans strategy work to better support people and families affected by dementia across the territory. Community Safety (St. Thomas): VIPD is investigating a fatal shooting at Mahogany Run Villas; a 34-year-old man, Michiah Morton, was found unresponsive with gunshot wounds and detectives are seeking motive and details. Health Access & Wellness (USVI/Region): Rio Grande Hospital received an AARP Community Challenge grant to build an age-friendly “wellness route” with benches, shade, and gentle-movement prompts. Health Policy (US): AARP and federal SNAP reporting highlight how community supports and program accuracy affect health—USDA data shows the U.S. Virgin Islands among the lowest SNAP payment error rates. Drinking Water (US): EPA announced $25M for small and rural drinking water upgrades, including PFAS and lead reduction. Disaster Health (Venezuela): Back-to-back earthquakes near Caracas have driven mass casualties and urgent medical needs, with health officials reporting deaths and patients arriving at care centers.

Disaster Response: Back-to-back magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes devastated Venezuela, collapsing buildings in Caracas and nearby areas and triggering tsunami alerts for parts of the Caribbean, with Venezuela’s health minister reporting rising deaths and patients arriving without vital signs at health centers. Local Health Leadership: In the British Virgin Islands, Dr. L. Sauda Smith called the Virgin Islands Alzheimer’s Association’s work “critically important,” after helping guide a strategy session to strengthen support for people living with dementia across the territory. Public Safety Policy: USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. signed a firearms reform bill updating licensing and registration rules to align with recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings and reduce subjective discretion. Health Care Fraud Crackdown: The U.S. DOJ announced a national health care fraud takedown charging 455 defendants tied to more than $6.5 billion in alleged false claims, including schemes involving medically unnecessary services. Food Assistance Accuracy: New USDA data highlights low SNAP payment error rates in the U.S. Virgin Islands (5.36%) and notes Wisconsin avoided penalties—relevant for how benefits are administered and monitored. Community Care Access: Allpure Behavioral Health partnered with Rx Outreach to expand affordable online treatment for opioid use disorder, including medication delivery without insurance requirements. Investigation: VI Police are investigating the death of an unresponsive man found next to a weapon at Mahogany Run Villas.

Disaster Response: Venezuela’s rare twin earthquakes—magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 just 39 seconds apart—triggered tsunami alerts across parts of the Caribbean, including the USVI, before advisories were later canceled. Casualties & Care: As rescue teams worked through damaged buildings, Venezuela’s confirmed death toll climbed to at least 235 with thousands injured, and health officials warned the numbers could rise as people are pulled from rubble. Local Policy: USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. signed a Firearms Reform Bill (Bill No. 36-0144) updating firearm licensing and registration rules. Nutrition Programs: New USDA data highlights SNAP payment accuracy pressure nationwide, with the Virgin Islands listed among the states/territories with lower error rates—relevant as federal penalties kick in when errors exceed 6%. Access to Treatment: Allpure Behavioral Health partnered with Rx Outreach to expand affordable online substance use disorder treatment via medication and free home delivery.

Disaster Response: Back-to-back magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes struck northern Venezuela near Caracas, collapsing buildings and damaging infrastructure; the acting president says at least 164 people are dead and 971 injured, with the toll expected to rise as rescue teams keep searching through rubble and aftershocks. Public Health Impact: Officials urged health care professionals to report to hospitals to help treat the injured, while schools and parts of the airport system were disrupted and shelters/donation centers were planned. Regional Safety Watch: A tsunami threat was initially issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S./British Virgin Islands but was later canceled, underscoring how quickly hazards can shift. Care Access: Allpure Behavioral Health partnered with Rx Outreach to expand affordable online substance use disorder treatment, pairing medication-assisted care with nonprofit mail-order pharmacy and free home delivery. Local Safety: VIPD is investigating a death at Mahogany Run Villas in St. Thomas after an unresponsive man was found next to a weapon; identity is pending next-of-kin notification.