St. Thomas Rescue

On 05/31/26, a passenger on a flight from St Croix observed a boat on fire, and notified the flight crew, who in turn activated a well rehearsed emergency response system.

Within minutes, response officers from St Thomas, and St John Rescue, Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan were mobilized.

We’re pleased to report that an individual was safely recovered from the water, in 5-6ft seas in a joint effort between the above agencies. With a little context, trying to find a human in a massive body of rough open water, is one of the hardest rescues at sea, especially when the only information you have is ‘14 miles south of St Thomas’. That’s a big area!

This sort of mission reinforces how working together makes the difference.

Bravo 👏

Today, May 31, resources have been mobilized to two serious incidents.

- Resolved: Overturned vehicle with entrapment in the area of Frydenhoj.

- Ongoing: Boat fire with persons in the water, 14 miles south of St Thomas.

05/30/26 2000 hours - Julian Jackson Drive is currently closed in the area of Happy View Market due to a police incident.

Please avoid the area.

This is what cooperation looks like (we know, we don’t often take great pictures!)

For many years, officers within Rescue have worked alongside the Department of Justice’s Special Investigation Division & Office of the Medical Examiner in a variety of roles.

One of those roles, while often difficult, remains an important part of serving our community: collecting or recovering the remains of loved ones.

No politics. No drama. Just two organizations working seamlessly, hand in hand, to get the job done.

We extend our sincere thanks to the USVI Department of Justice for taking the time to grill out and show appreciation for our members. Your support and partnership are truly valued.

No emergencies today please! We’re out with another Beach Battle Challenge supporting the St Thomas Swimming Association.

Good luck to all the teams!

05/07/26 - Mariners are advised that sections of the East Gregory Channel - 'the Cut', along with areas of Frenchtown and Charlotte Amalie Harbors will be restricted for periods between approximately 1000 and 1300 on May 7th, 2026 while diving operations are conducted.

The United States Coast Guard will provide information via safety marine broadcasts on VHF 16/22A.

St John Rescue
U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan
Virgin Islands Police Department

05/02/26 1945 - Multiple agencies mobilized to a boating accident on the waterfront. Please use caution in the area.

04/30/26 1620 hours - Resources mobilized along with St John Rescue and U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan to a reported sinking vessel near Cruz Bay.

One bad decision can end Carnival early. Have a happy and safe Carnival 2026. Please lime responsibly! 🪅