A brazen midday shooting on the Christiansted boardwalk has claimed the life of 38-year-old Jordan Jones, a beloved local comedian known as “Dutty Heart.”

According to V.I. Police Department spokesperson Glen Dratte, the shooting happened around 12:45 p.m. Thursday as Jones and a friend were walking along the boardwalk. A man in a dark hoodie approached them, a struggle broke out, and multiple shots were fired, according to preliminary information. The suspect left the scene on foot, according to VIPD. No one has been apprehended at this time.

Jones was hit several times and later succumbed to his injuries at Juan F. Luis Hospital. His companion suffered a graze wound and is recovering from non-life-threatening injuries, Dratte said.

Police say Jones has been officially identified by next of kin.

“This was a senseless act of violence in the middle of the day, in a heavily trafficked area,” Dratte said. “We’re urging anyone who saw something, no matter how small, to speak up.”

A full and active investigation has been launched. Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-778-4950. Tips can be made anonymously to CrimeStoppers USVI at (800) 222-TIPS.