Missing Americans in the Caribbean
Discovery and Speculations
Virginia couple feared killed in Grenada after yacht stolen by fugitives, The Two American individuals who intended to spend the winter aboard their yacht in the Caribbean have been officially declared missing as of Monday. Concerns mount that they may have met a tragic end after their vessel was reportedly stolen by prison escapees in Grenada. Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry were last sighted a week ago near a beach in the small island nation. Subsequently, police discovered their sailboat and apprehended three fugitives whom they suspect of being responsible for the theft.
Grim Speculations
Authorities in Grenada expressed grim speculations on Monday, suggesting that the couple might have been thrown into the ocean and perished. Don McKenzie, the police commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force, conveyed during a press briefing, “Information suggests that while traveling between Grenada and St. Vincent, (the suspects) disposed of the occupants.”
Ongoing Search
Despite ongoing efforts by Grenadan police to locate the missing couple, who hail from Northern Virginia, CBS News’ Washington D.C. affiliate WUSA reported that no bodies had been recovered.
The Virginia couple feared killed in Grenada were Seasoned Sailors
Described by family and friends as seasoned sailors, Brandel and Hendry had embarked on numerous maritime adventures. Just the previous year, they sailed their yacht, christened Simplicity, from Hampton, Virginia to Antigua. It was disclosed that they were vacationing in Grenada, where their vessel was anchored.
Tragic Turn of Events
“It’s just really sad,” expressed longtime friend K.C. McAlpin, reflecting on the tragic turn of events. McAlpin noted that Brandel and Hendry had envisioned this trip aboard Simplicity as their “last grand voyage.”
Arrest of Suspects
On February 18, the abandoned yacht was discovered on a beach on the nearby island of St. Vincent. Coincidentally, that same day, Grenada police announced the arrest of three convicted felons who had recently escaped custody.
Suspects’ Background
The suspects, identified as Ron Mitchell, 30. Trevon Robertson, 19, and Abita Stanislaus, 25, had been apprehended in December in connection with a violent robbery. Mitchell faced additional charges, including rape and attempted rape.
Investigation
According to authorities, evidence suggests that the trio hijacked the couple’s yacht in Grenada before fleeing to St. Vincent. Although police reported findings hinting at foul play, the deaths of the Americans have not been confirmed, and the investigation remains in its preliminary stages.
Gratitude and Remembrance
In a statement released over the weekend, family members expressed gratitude to officials and individuals who aided in gathering information, stating that such support “means so much to us that so many people care for Ralph and Kathy.” McAlpin fondly remembered the couple for their amiable nature and hoped they would be commemorated for their generosity. “They were just a delightful couple and a real blessing in my life, and the lives of so many other people,” he remarked.
