Press Release

Man Charged With Voluntary Manslaughter

Police on St. Thomas arrested Alejandro D. Lima, 25, and charged him with voluntary manslaughter in the death of Gilberto Parrilla who died a few days after being punched in the face by Lima on February 17.  Major Crimes detectives made the arrest on March 1.  

Detectives said, in February they interviewed several persons at the Gas Works Convenience Store regarding an assault that took place there at about 2:30 on February 17.  Witnesses told police that the deceased, Gilberto Parilla, was causing a disturbance in the store and was asked to leave several times. Parilla continued to curse and talk loudly and he spit in Alejandro Lima’s face. Lima then punched Parilla causing him to fall and hit his head.

The victim was taken to the Roy Lester Schneider Hospital and Medical Center for treatment. Medical staffers told police that the punch caused the victim’s dentures to lodge in his throat.  The victim died from his injuries four days later, on February 21.  

Detectives charged Lima with voluntary manslaughter.  His bail was set at $50,000 pending further court action.