FREDERIKSTED — Police are investigating after a marijuana deal broke bad when the customer refused to pay for his “goods” at the point of sale and then simply walked away with them.
Troy Hazell Jr., 31, of Castle Burke, was arrested and charged with first-degree assault, third-degree assault, first-degee robbery, unauthorized possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, possession of ammunition, and grand larceny, the Virgin Islands Police Department said.
The case began at 9:44 a.m. on February 22, 2024, when the 911 Emergency Call Center was notified of a gunshot victim being transported to the Juan F. Luis Hospital by private vehicle, according to the VIPD.
VIPD mug shot of Troy Hazel Jr., 31, of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
During the encounter, the victim sustained gunshot wounds to his back, abdomen and buttocks, police said.
A detective from the Criminal Investigation Bureau was assigned to this case, according to police.
The investigation revealed that the suspect, Troy Hazell Jr., agreed to meet with the victim to buy marijuana from him, police said.
The suspect entered the victim’s vehicle and agreed to purchase the marijuana, according to police.
“He then exited the vehicle, telling the victim he was going to get the money,” VIPD spokeswoman Kishma Chichester said. “When the suspect returned, he was armed with a handgun and informed the victim that he had no money and that he was taking the marijuana.”
He then took the marijuana and began walking away, Chichester said.
“The victim followed him demanding that the suspect return the marijuana,” she said. “At that point, Hazell Jr. turned around and ripped the victim’s two gold chains from his neck.”
Hazell Jr. discharged the handgun in the air and attempted to walk away again, however
the victim tackled Hazell, Jr. and a physical altercation ensued, during which the victim
was shot multiple times, police said.
A warrant for Troy Hazell Jr.’s arrest was signed by a Superior Court judge, according to police.
On April 1, 2025, Hazell was taken into official custody and charged with the criminal complaints above, police said.
The suspect was read his Miranda Rights, booked and processed.
Hazel was transferred to the custody of the Bureau of Corrections at the John A. Bell Adult Correctional Facility in Golden Grove.
He is scheduled for an advice-of-rights hearing in Superior Court.