ST. JOHN, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – The Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) responded to two structure fires on St. John over the weekend, each requiring coordinated efforts between Romeo Company and Zulu Company.
Privateer Bay Fire – Friday, October 31, 2025
At approximately 10:44 p.m., VIFEMS received a 911 call reporting a structure fire in the Privateer Bay area on the eastern end of St. John. Crews from Romeo Company were the first to arrive on scene and found the residence fully engulfed in flames, prompting additional support from Zulu Company.
Firefighters worked through the night to contain the blaze. Major flames were extinguished by 12:29 a.m., and final operations concluded at 2:37 a.m., bringing the response to an end after more than three hours.
No injuries were reported, and no neighboring properties were affected. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the VIFEMS Arson Investigation and Prevention Unit.
Chocolate Hole Fire – Sunday, November 2, 2025
Around 6:40 p.m. Sunday, VIFEMS crews responded to a reported structure fire in the Chocolate Hole area on St. John. Units from both Zulu and Romeo companies arrived on scene at 6:50 p.m. and observed heavy flames coming from the second-story electrical, maintenance and laundry area of the structure.
Firefighters launched an aggressive attack, bringing the blaze under control within minutes. Crews remained on scene for just over two hours to ensure the area was fully extinguished and safe before concluding operations at 9:02 p.m.
The VIFEMS Arson Investigation and Prevention Team responded to the scene after containment, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
VIFEMS Director Antonio Stevens commended the firefighters for their quick response and professionalism during the weekend incidents.
“I’m proud of our St. John crews for their quick action and professionalism,” said Director Stevens. “Their commitment to protecting life and property, even during back-to-back incidents, demonstrates the strength and reliability of our personnel across the Virgin Islands.”
VIFEMS remains steadfast in its mission to protect life, property, and the well-being of the Virgin Islands community.