Think the murder rate here is high - try Venezuela!

Compared to other small islands we are well maintained and they do connect to all small towns. I didn't see anything in there that wasn't true. Just don't understand why it's funny.

This past weekend might have been the last weekend in about three weeks that a young person was killed/murdered... am I wrong?

For tourists that may be concerned: more than two million tourists a year come to the USVI. With 60+ homicides last year, and most being gang on gang, your risk is very low.

The USVI is a very unique part of the USA.

That said, don't leave valuables anywhere in sight and unguarded. Having your stuff stolen is the biggest risk, because many people do target tourists for pilfering.

Are there any statistics regarding the murder rate and how often it is just random shootings of people out and about? The article makes clear that it is very targeted amongst the gangs and drug circles. However, as a person considering relocating with two small children, it would be nice if there were more concrete stats about the "open fire" shootings that the article also mentions. This may not be available; and if not, are there places that should absolutely be avoided? My husband and I will be down there (sans kiddos) for our pre-move visit, and obviously the safety issues and these statistics weighs heavily on our minds. I basically am looking for info if it is just safe to be out and about, shopping, dining...as long as you aren't doing silly things like waving $100 bills about. I really appreciate this message board for all the information it has provided, good and bad. And I know there are different perspectives. Thank you all so much!

http://stcroixsource.com/content/news/police/2011/05/19/homicide-data-2011

just found this and provides a bit more detail.