The Home Journal

Julio Cardona Held In Shooting Ed. Rodriguez

Julio Cardona proprietor of the St. Croix Beer Garden located on the south west corner of King & Market Street in Christiansted was arrested in the fatal shooting of Eduardo Rodriguez proprietor of the Mount Welcome Bar, which has a cockpit near Parade Ground. at about 11:30 Saturday. A charge of murder will be placed against him by the Police.

Although there were hundreds of persons in the vicinity, and several eye witnesses, each had a different version of what happened. However, according to the story given the Police by Cardona the two men had an argument some weeks ago; at that time Rodriguez slapped Cardona several times. Since then the former has sent messages expressing the hope that all will be forgotten and their friendship continue.

Rodriguez, driving his pick up was stopped by the traffic light in front of the Beer Garden, Cardona came out to speak to him. but instead of the friendly response he expected, Rodriguez struck him with a piece of 2 by 4 plank, about a foot long and he fell to the floor. He then drew his unlicensed 25 caliber pistol and fired into the air to stop the attack but as Rodriguez advanced he fired a second time hitting him in the face. All persons in the vicinity agreed that they heard three shots and the police also found three bullets.

Someone summoned the police and ambulance as the blood gushed from Rodriguez. He was placed in the ambulance but was pronounced dead by Dr. James on arrival at the hospital.

Cardona handed over his gun to patrolman Ferdinand, who took him to headquarters where he is being held for a hearing.

Rodriguez has a wife and two children, Cardona has a wife and three children.