Authorities in the eastern Caribbean are grappling with the disappearance of two individuals believed to be US citizens following the hijacking of their yacht by three escaped prisoners from Grenada.
Royal Grenada Police Force, in a statement released Friday, disclosed that they are actively pursuing leads that suggest the occupants of the yacht may have met a tragic fate.
The missing individuals have been identified as Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel, seasoned cruisers and cherished Salty Dawg Sailing Association members.
The association, deeply distressed by the unfolding events, described Hendry and Brandel as “warmhearted and capable,” highlighting their extensive experience navigating the Caribbean waters.
The grim discovery unfolded when a cruising skipper, alerting the Salty Dawg Sailing Association, stumbled upon the abandoned yacht named Simplicity off the shores of St. Vincent.
Evidence of possible violence onboard heightened concerns, prompting an urgent response from authorities and the sailing community alike.
Bob Osborn, President of the Salty Dawg Sailing Association, expressed profound shock, stating, “In all my years of cruising the Caribbean, I have never heard of anything like this.”
The association emphasized that details remain unconfirmed by authorities, underscoring the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Family members of the missing duo convened with authorities in St. Vincent on Saturday, where they boarded the hijacked yacht under official supervision.
Gratitude poured from Hendry’s family towards law enforcement, coast guards, and the community for their unwavering support during this distressing ordeal.
Meanwhile, authorities in Grenada have mobilized senior investigators and forensic specialists to St. Vincent, the site of the prisoners’ apprehension.
The escaped convicts, aged 19, 25, and 30, faced charges of robbery with violence, with additional charges levied against the eldest for rape and related offenses.
The trio’s daring escape from custody on February 18 sent shockwaves through the region, culminating in the hijacking of the yacht in Grenada’s capital, St. George’s.
investigations suggest that the fugitives commandeered the vessel before fleeing to St. Vincent, where they were subsequently captured.
Amidst the ongoing search and rescue efforts, family members of the missing duo issued a plea for restraint, urging independent search parties to “stand down” to prevent further harm.
Their heartfelt plea underscores the gravity of the situation and the paramount importance of prioritizing safety.
As authorities continue to piece together the events leading to the disappearance of Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel, the tight-knit sailing community remains united in solidarity, holding onto hope amidst the uncertainty that shrouds the fate of their beloved friends and fellow adventurers.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members