British Virgin Islands: Attorney Jamal S Smith found dead with gunshot wounds

Residents of the British Virgin Islands are reeling from the loss of Attorney Jamal S. Smith, an imminent figure in the region, who was known for his exceptional contributions to the nations, both in a professional capacity and as a well-known public figure.

Sadly, he became the first homicide victim in the British Virgin Islands for 2024 and was found in his residence, located in Tortola with gunshot wounds.

According to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), reports of a shooting at Manuel Reef were received at 7:30 pm on Monday, which led to an immediate response from RVIPF personnel, who arrived at the scene with an ambulance.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) failed to find any signs of a shooting after conducting a thorough search of the area but ended up at a residence in Manuel Hill upon further investigation.

They searched the premises in a thorough manner and ended up finding the body of prominent attorney Jamal Smith, aged 46. Smith was a resident of Manuel Hill and was found with gunshot wounds before being pronounced dead at the scene itself.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has stated that investigations surrounding the circumstances which led to Jamal Smith’s death are ongoing and has asked any individual who saw Smith in the morning or evening of Monday to report to the authorities.

Any individual with information that could aid the investigation in any way shape or form has been asked to call the Crime Stoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas call 1-284-800-8477 and relay the information confidentially.

They can also contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 to speak to the authorities and say their piece if they have any significant information on the matter.
Jamal S. Smith, was not just an attorney but also the Founder and Principal of THORNTON SMITH, which is a successful general practice law firm with a reputation for handling complex corporate transactions.

The island of Tortola is shocked and scared because of his death, especially considering the fact that it is a quiet and safe area in general.

Daniel Pruce, the Governor of the British Virgin Islands, took to Facebook to say the following, “I’m deeply saddened to see this. Jamal’s commitment to public service made an important contribution to the Virgin Islands. My thoughts are with his loved ones. I would urge anyone with any relevant information to be in touch with the RVIPF.”

David Archer Jr, who is the Acting Governor of the Virgin Islands, spoke about the incident as well, “As Acting Governor, I have already spoken to the Commissioner of Police and will attend the National Security Council meeting this afternoon. I am appealing to anyone with relevant information to contact the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).”