Man Charged with First-Degree Murder of Former Girlfriend

The tranquil island of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands was recently shattered by a horrific act of domestic violence that culminated in the execution-style murder of 33-year-old Latifa Raimer. On Tuesday, May 22, 2025, Raimer was left at a local hospital with a fatal gunshot wound to the back of the head, the bullet exiting through her eye. The individual who dropped her off offered no explanation to hospital staff and vanished before authorities arrived. Raimer was pronounced dead shortly thereafter, leaving the community reeling in shock and grief.

Law enforcement swiftly launched an investigation, utilizing patrol officers, detectives, and forensic teams to piece together the tragic events. Their efforts quickly led to the identification and apprehension of 35-year-old Dana Joseph Jr., Raimer’s ex-boyfriend. Within hours of the incident, Joseph was arrested and charged with a series of grave offenses, including first-degree murder (domestic violence), first-degree assault (domestic violence), third-degree assault (domestic violence), and unauthorized use of a firearm during a crime of violence. He is currently being held without bail, awaiting trial for this brutal and senseless act.

The callous nature of the crime, described as an execution-style killing, has sent shockwaves through the island community. The image of Raimer being “hunted down and discarded like nothing,” as one close friend lamented, has ignited a firestorm of public outcry, demanding justice for the victim and stricter measures to protect women from domestic violence. The incident has sparked renewed calls for harsher penalties for abusers and amplified the urgent need for robust support systems for victims of domestic abuse. Raimer’s tragic death has become a rallying cry for change, a symbol of the pervasive and often deadly consequences of unchecked domestic violence.

This tragic incident is not an isolated event. It underscores a disturbing trend of escalating intimate partner violence across the Caribbean region, highlighting the critical need for proactive intervention, education, and comprehensive support networks to prevent further loss of life. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of women in abusive relationships and the often fatal consequences of unchecked aggression. It emphasizes the importance of community awareness, early intervention, and providing safe avenues for victims to seek help and escape dangerous situations.

The aftermath of Raimer’s death has seen an outpouring of grief and anger, with friends and community members describing her as a “loving, vibrant, and full of life” individual whose life was tragically cut short. The hashtag #JusticeForLatifa has become a rallying cry on social media, echoing the demand for accountability and a commitment to ending the cycle of domestic violence. The community’s collective grief and outrage have transformed into a powerful call to action, urging individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize addressing the root causes of domestic violence and implement effective strategies to prevent future tragedies.

Latifa Raimer’s memory has become a catalyst for change, a symbol of the urgent need for collective action to combat domestic violence. Her tragic death underscores the importance of creating a society where victims feel safe to speak out, where abusers are held accountable, and where resources and support are readily available to those trapped in abusive relationships. The community’s plea for #NoMoreSilence is a testament to their commitment to breaking the cycle of violence and creating a future where such horrific acts are no longer tolerated. The hope is that Latifa’s memory will serve as a constant reminder of the human cost of domestic violence and inspire lasting change in the fight against this pervasive societal ill.