17-Year-Old Killed in Fatal Shooting at Walter IM Hodge Housing in Frederiksted

Second victim, 18, hospitalized and listed in stable condition as VIPD investigates deadly gunfire at Sofarelli

FREDERIKSTED, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands — October 23, 2026 — A 17-year-old male has died and an 18-year-old male was injured following a shooting Thursday night at the Walter I.M. Hodge Housing Community, also known as Sofarelli, in Frederiksted, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD).

Police said the 911 Emergency Call Center received notification from the VIPD Gunshot Detection Center at approximately 9:07 p.m. on October 22, reporting gunfire in the housing community. The call center also received multiple reports of two gunshot victims.

VIPD officers, Emergency Medical Services personnel and firefighters responded to the scene. Both victims were transported to Juan F. Luis Hospital for medical treatment.

The 17-year-old victim, identified by his next of kin as Ky'janny Niles, later succumbed to his injuries. The second victim, an 18-year-old male, received treatment and was reported to be in stable condition.

Investigation Remains Active

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The VIPD Criminal Investigation Bureau is continuing its investigation into the fatal shooting. Authorities have not provided additional details about the circumstances surrounding the gunfire or whether a suspect has been identified.

Police are asking anyone with information that could assist investigators to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers VI at 1-800-222-TIPS, call 911, or contact the Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-778-2211.