CHRISTIANSTED, ST. CROIX — June 5, 2025 – A prominent figure in the Virgin Islands music scene was fatally shot in a broad daylight attack on Thursday, sending shockwaves through the Christiansted community. Jordan Jones, known to fans as “Dutty Heart,” was gunned down around 12:45 p.m. while walking with a friend along the popular Christiansted boardwalk.
According to the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD), an unidentified gunman wearing dark clothing and a hoodie approached the pair. Witnesses reported a brief exchange before multiple gunshots rang out, disrupting what had been a peaceful afternoon in the usually vibrant waterfront area. The assailant quickly fled the scene on foot heading west.
Jones, 38, was struck multiple times and transported to Juan F. Luis Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. His companion, who has not been named, suffered a graze wound and is expected to recover. VIPD spokesperson Glen Dratte described the incident as a “senseless act of violence,” emphasizing the brazen nature of the attack in such a public setting.
“This community deserves better,” Dratte said during a press briefing. “Jordan was well known and well loved, and we’re committed to finding the person responsible. We are asking everyone who may have witnessed this or seen something unusual to contact us immediately.”
At this time, no suspects have been arrested, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Police have launched a full investigation and are reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses. Officers are also canvassing the area for additional witnesses who may have seen the shooter before or after the incident.
Jones was a fixture in the local entertainment community, widely celebrated for his contributions to Virgin Islands culture and music. Fans and friends have flooded social media with tributes, remembering him as a passionate performer and beloved personality. His death marks another tragic loss in a year already marred by gun violence across the territory.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the VIPD’s Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-778-4950 or call 911. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to CrimeStoppers USVI at (800) 222-TIPS. Police continue to urge public cooperation as they pursue justice in this tragic case.
