A man accused of shooting another during a botched drug transaction on St. Croix has been arrested more than a year after the incident, the Virgin Islands Police Department announced.
Troy Hazell Jr., 31, was taken into custody Tuesday after a warrant was issued for his arrest in connection with a Feb. 22, 2024, shooting that left a man wounded. He faces multiple charges, including first-degree assault, third-degree assault, first-degree robbery, unauthorized possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, possession of ammunition, and grand larceny. Hazell Jr. was booked and remains in custody pending his advice of rights hearing, according to the police report.
According to police, the incident began when Hazell Jr. arranged to buy marijuana from the victim. He entered the victim’s vehicle, agreed to the purchase, and stepped out, saying he needed to get money. When he returned, he was armed with a handgun and told the victim he had no money but was taking the marijuana. He then took the drugs and attempted to walk away.
The victim followed and demanded that the marijuana be returned. Hazell Jr. responded by snatching two gold chains from the victim’s neck and firing a shot into the air. When he tried to leave again, the victim tackled him, leading to a struggle. During the altercation, Hazell Jr. fired multiple shots, striking the victim in the back, abdomen, and buttocks, the police report stated.
The victim was transported to Juan F. Luis Hospital by private vehicle. A detective from the Criminal Investigation Bureau took over the case, leading to the issuance of the arrest warrant, the report stated.
