St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands — At approximately 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, a citizen reported that their vehicle, a 2006 Hummer H3, had been stolen.
A preliminary investigation conducted by detectives revealed surveillance footage from the area showing an African American male unlawfully entering the vehicle and driving away from the scene.
On Friday, October 30, 2026, Detectives of the Criminal Investigation Bureau recovered the stolen vehicle and arrested 18-year-old Elijah Hassell in connection with the crime. He was charged with Unauthorized Use of Vehicle and Grand Larceny. Hassell was booked, processed, and turned over to the Bureau of Corrections pending his Advice of Rights hearing.
On Monday, November 2, 2026, Hassell appeared before a Magistrate Judge for his Advice of Rights hearing. The court found probable cause for his arrest and set bail at $10,000.00 with a 10% provision. Unable to post bail, Hassell was returned to the custody of the Bureau of Corrections pending further court proceedings.
The VIPD urges anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information related to this investigation to come forward. Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigation Bureau at (340) 774-221 or call the 911 Emergency Call Center. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers V.I. by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
