ST. CROIX — Police have arrested a 62-year-old man suspected to have shot to death 36-year-old Gregory Barnes at around the seven o’clock hour near the Watergut shanty on Saturday night, V.I.P.D. Public Information Officer Glen Dratte announced Sunday morning. The arrest came just over 8 hours following shooting.
Elwood Canton Jr. was arrested at 3:41 a.m. on Sunday, after an investigation led officers to an area where he fled to. Upon their arrival to the location, officers made contact with and arrested Mr. Canton, who was founding hiding under a vehicle. He has been charged with second-degree murder, although firearm charges may be added following his advise-of-rights hearing, as police say Mr. Canton was not a lawful firearm owner.
According to Mr. Dratte, citing information from a police investigation, Mr. Canton and Mr. Barnes got into a minor dispute, however Mr. Barnes became confrontational and aggressive towards Mr. Canton. The shooting suspect then attempted to leave the area, but Mr. Barnes continued his aggression and ultimately shoved forcefully Mr. Canton in the chest. Mr. Canton then pulled out a gun and shot Mr. Barnes multiple times, according to the police investigation.
Unable to make bail of $500,000, Mr. Canton was remanded to the Golden Grove Detention Center pending his advise-of-rights hearing.
Tags: Elwood Canton Jr., Gregory Barnes, homicide, shanty, shooting, st croix, usvi, watergut
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