SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A tragic incident unfolded in the Caribbean last week when an older U.S. couple’s catamaran was hijacked by three escaped prisoners. Grenadian police announced on Monday that the couple, Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel, were likely thrown into the ocean and have died. This news has devastated the search party who were hoping for a different outcome.
The escape of the three prisoners occurred on February 18 from the South Saint George Police Station. The following day, they hijacked the catamaran named “Simplicity” and set sail towards St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Fortunately, they were arrested last Wednesday in St. Vincent, but during their journey, it is believed that they disposed of the couple.
Don McKenzie, the police commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force, addressed the media during a news conference to provide updates on the case. While he did not have conclusive evidence of the couple’s demise, he expressed a low probability of them being found alive. However, he emphasized that there is still hope. McKenzie also mentioned that limited information could be shared due to the ongoing investigation and lack of sufficient details from Grenadian authorities.
The nonprofit Salty Dawg Sailing Association expressed their condolences and described Hendry and Brandel as “veteran cruisers” and valued members of their association. The couple had participated in last year’s Caribbean Rally and were spending their winter cruising in the eastern Caribbean. This tragedy has deeply saddened the sailing community, as Brandel had recently become a first-time grandmother.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support the couple’s family during this difficult time. The page highlighted the adventurous spirit of Hendry and Brandel, who spent their retirement sailing aboard Simplicity, enjoying the summers in New England and embracing the warmth of Caribbean winters.
Grenada’s police commissioner announced that a team of five individuals has been sent to St. Vincent to assist with the investigation. The authorities are determined to uncover the truth behind the escape and determine if it was a system failure or a slip-up. McKenzie assured the public that all aspects of the investigation are being thoroughly examined.
During the press conference, McKenzie faced tough questions from local reporters who sought answers about the failure to keep the prisoners under control. He acknowledged that the police have launched an investigation into the escape and are considering all possibilities. He also clarified that the holding station where the three men were kept had sufficient safety measures to prevent such incidents.
The escaped prisoners, aged 19, 25, and 30, were previously charged with robbery with violence. The eldest inmate faced additional charges of rape, attempted rape, indecent assault, and causing harm. Grenada’s police force is now faced with the daunting task of unraveling how these individuals managed to escape custody and the tragic consequences that followed.
While the investigation continues, the sailing community, friends, and family of Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel mourn their loss. The tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the risks involved in pursuing a life of adventure on the open seas. As the world awaits further developments in this case, the focus remains on finding justice for the victims and their grieving loved ones.
