An Estate Strawberry family was uninjured after a harrowing night in which four gunmen held them hostage in their own home in an ill-conceived plot to rob a bank.
According to the V.I. Police Department, the St. Croix family was held hostage for several hours before the gunmen realized their plan to get the banks’ money would not work. The gunmen later left the home and the family unharmed.
According to the preliminary information, the woman, whose name was not released, returned home at about 11 p.m. Monday and was approached by four men who forced their way into her home. At least three more of her family members were in the home at the time.
The gunmen demanded that the victim take them to get $100,000 from the Banco Popular Orange Grove Branch location, where she works.
When the women explained that it was impossible to fulfill their request the gunmen left the home.
The victim said the men were dressed in all black clothing and carried small guns.
This case is being followed up by the VIPD Criminal Investigation Bureau. Officers urged anyone with information about the case to call detectives at 1-340-712-6037 or 1-340-712- 6077, or call the 911 emergency center or the anonymous tip service, Crime Stoppers USVI, at 1-800-222-8477.
A spokeswoman for Banco Popular said the bank is collaborating with the police.
