Authorities in the eastern Caribbean are investigating a troubling incident involving the possible murder of two individuals believed to be U.S. citizens. The victims, Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry were reportedly the owners of a catamaran that was hijacked by three fugitives in the waters off Grenada.
The suspects, Ron Mitchell, Trevon Robertson, and Abita Stanislaus, had escaped custody in Grenada and were later captured in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Preliminary information suggests that the escaped prisoners traveled from Grenada to St. Vincent and the Grenadines aboard a yacht. Investigators are now exploring leads that indicate the two occupants of the vessel may have been killed during the incident.
While authorities have yet to officially confirm Brandel and Hendry as the yacht’s owners, the Salty Dawg Sailing Association, of which the couple were members, identified them as such.
Reports indicate that the yacht, named Simplicity, was found abandoned off the coast of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Evidence of violence was discovered on board, raising concerns about the fate of the owners. The couple, described as seasoned sailors, had embarked on a sailing journey from the eastern coast of the U.S. into the Caribbean.
The Caribbean Safety and Security Net reported findings of blood in the master stateroom of the yacht, indicating a violent altercation. Data from an automatic tracking system revealed that the vessel departed Grenada at an unusually high speed, contrary to the couple’s typical sailing habits.
The three fugitives, who were originally held on charges of robbery with violence in Grenada, are now subjects of heightened scrutiny.
Mitchell faces additional charges of rape, attempted rape, and indecent assault. As investigations continue, authorities are working diligently to uncover the truth behind this tragic event that has shaken the local community and the sailing world.
