Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services

Congratulations once again to John Bermudez, VIFEMS' St. Croix Employee of the Year.

Recognized during yesterday's Employee of the Year Ceremony on St. Croix, we are proud to celebrate and recognize one of our very own for this well-deserved honor.

Thank you, John, for your continued commitment to VIFEMS and the community we serve. Please join us in congratulating him on this achievement.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2026

VIFEMS EXTINGUISHES VESSEL FIRE AT COMPASS POINT MARINA

ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — On Monday, June 1, at approximately 10:14 p.m., the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) responded to a vessel fire at Compass Point Marina after receiving reports of flames coming from a vessel docked at the marina.

Upon arrival, firefighters observed flames inside the vessel's cabin while bystanders attempted to contain the fire using a fire extinguisher. Crews immediately began extinguishing the fire while simultaneously searching the vessel after learning that the owner's dog was unaccounted for.

The fire was brought under control, and firefighters continued searching the vessel. The dog was later found deceased inside the vessel. VIFEMS extends its sympathies to the owner during this difficult time.

The fire was confined to the vessel's pantry area, causing damage to the vessel. No other vessels were affected by the incident.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the VIFEMS Arson Investigation and Prevention Unit.

VIFEMS is committed to rapid response, effective fire suppression, and the protection of life and property across the Territory.

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Press Contact: Chiemeka Fredericksen
Public Information Officer
Phone: (340) 201-2292
[email protected]

💙 Your health matters, Virgin Islands!

Join us at the 2026 USVI Health & Wellness Fair for FREE health services for the whole family across the Territory. From children’s exams and sports physicals to breast exams, prostate screenings, vaccinations, glucose testing, mental wellness checks, and more — we’re bringing healthcare closer to you.

📍 St. Thomas | June 1–5 | Old Kmart
📍 St. Croix | June 8–12 | Central High School
📍 St. John | June 22-24 | DeCastro Clinic

🕘 All services are FREE from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Take a step toward better health and wellness for you and your family. We’ll see you there! 💛

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 1, 2026

VIFEMS RESPONDS TO VESSEL FIRE OFF THE COAST OF ST. THOMAS

ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — On Sunday, May 31, at approximately 3:39 p.m., the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) responded to a vessel fire off the coast of St. Thomas.

Marine One (VIFEMS' marine firefighting and rescue vessel) responded to the incident alongside the United States Coast Guard, St. Thomas Rescue, and St John Rescue. Upon arrival in the area, responders located the vessel, which had become partially submerged and was sinking. The vessel's sole occupant was found on an overturned dinghy and was safely rescued by the United States Coast Guard.

The occupant was then transferred to Marine One for assessment and was determined to be in stable condition. No injuries were reported, and medical treatment was not required.

The vessel was subsequently lost as a result of the incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the VIFEMS Arson Investigation and Prevention Unit.

VIFEMS is committed to rapid response, effective emergency operations, and the protection of life and property across the Territory.

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Press Contact: Chiemeka Fredericksen
Public Information Officer
Phone: (340) 201-2292
[email protected]

Acting Governor Tregenza Roach, Esq., has announced a 12pm opening of government offices in the STT/J district as a result of the power disruptions.

VIFEMS wrapped up EMS Week 2026 with staff appreciation activities held across the Territory in recognition of our outstanding team who continue to serve communities throughout the Virgin Islands with professionalism, resilience, and heart. 💙🚑

To close out the week, staff in St. Croix enjoyed a bowling night, while staff in St. Thomas came together for a Game Night, BBQ, and Ice Cream Social. The activities created space for laughter, connection, and well-deserved downtime following a week dedicated to celebrating the people behind emergency medical services.

Thank you to our EMS personnel for the invaluable work you do and for the dedication you continue to bring to the communities we proudly serve.

VIFEMS HONORS THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF FORMER DIRECTOR PEDRO “PETE” M. ENCARNACION

VIFEMS honors the life and legacy of former Director Pedro “Pete” M. Encarnacion, whose more than two decades of service to the Virgin Islands Fire Service helped shape the foundation of the department for generations to come. Rising through the ranks from firefighter to director, Pete served with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to public safety.

Throughout his career, Pete earned the respect of fellow firefighters and community members alike through his leadership, commitment to service, and care for the people of the Virgin Islands. He recognized the responsibility that came with serving the community and remained dedicated to strengthening the Fire Service while fostering meaningful relationships both within and beyond the department.

Pete understood that service extended far beyond emergency response. He believed in building meaningful connections within the community and took pride in encouraging young people through mentorship initiatives such as the Junior Firefighters program, athletics, and public outreach. Whether through the fire service, public office, music, or community involvement, Pete carried a sincere passion for serving others and uplifting the people around him. His ability to connect with others while remaining approachable and respected left a lasting impression on many throughout the Territory.

Even after his years within the Fire Service, Pete continued his commitment to the people of the Virgin Islands as a senator and community leader, always carrying with him the same dedication and sense of purpose that defined his career.

Pete’s legacy extends far beyond the uniform. He will be remembered as a respected leader, mentor, public servant, musician, and friend whose presence brought warmth, compassion, and genuine care to every space he entered. His contributions to the Virgin Islands Fire Service and the Territory as a whole will not be forgotten.

On behalf of the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, family members, friends, former colleagues, and all who mourn his passing. We honor his life, his service, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

With deepest sympathies,
Antonio Stevens
Director, VIFEMS

Office Closure Notice

In observance of Memorial Day, the main offices of the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026.

Normal office hours will resume on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.