At least two more cruise lines suspended shore excursions on St. Thomas that travel through the Coki Point Beach area, where a Carnival Cruise Lines passenger was killed on July 12. The victim, a 14-year-old girl from Puerto Rico, was traveling on an open-air bus when she was caught in the crossfire of a gun fight between two gangs. Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises have both suspended tours in that area for the time being. “As always, the safety and security of our guests and crew is of the utmost importance,” NCL said in a statement. “Therefore, we are cancelling all tours to the Coki Point Beach area today [July 14].”

Princess suspended three shore excursions that visit Coki Point Beach -- “Nautilus Semi-Submersible and Coral World,” “Sea Lion Swim at Coral World” and “Discover Scuba Dive.” The Emerald Princess is scheduled to visit St. Thomas July 15, followed by the Caribbean Princess on July 16. Carnival also suspended tours through the area even though the victim was not on a Carnival-sponsored tour.

Meanwhile, the Associated Press reported that police arrested a suspect in the shooting. Steven Tyson, 22, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of the girl and an 18-year-old man who was also killed in the shootout.

“The United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is deeply saddened by the tragic incident that took place at Coki Point on St. Thomas on the morning of July 12,” the organization said in a statement. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the Perez family. After being notified of the incident by the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Department of Tourism responded immediately and met with Liz Marie Perez Chapparro’s family to express condolences and provide necessary assistance. The department arranged for a charter flight to accommodate the family’s desire to immediately return home to Puerto Rico. The commissioner of tourism, deputy commissioner along with other key members of the tourism team remained with the family until their departure from St. Thomas. The Department of Tourism will continue to facilitate communication between the family and the territory during this difficult period. This was an isolated incident and thanks to the swift action of the Virgin Islands Police Department, the suspect has been apprehended. The U.S. Virgin Islands remains a safe destination for visitors and instances of crime against visitors are rare. As a U.S. territory, the U.S. Virgin Islands operates within the American judicial system.” For more information, visit www.usvitourism.vi.