ST. GEORGE’S, GRENADA – A chilling event is being investigated in the Caribbean as an American couple who planned a winter vacation sailing in their yacht is feared dead after the vessel was stolen, reportedly by prison escapees in Grenada.
Reports indicate that Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry, both from Northern Virginia, were last seen about a week ago near a Grenadian beach. Their sailboat was later discovered, along with three escaped convicts who are presumed to have stolen it.
Law enforcement in Grenada believes that the couple was disposed of in the ocean, which led to their presumptive deaths. Grenadian police are still on a relentless search for Brandel and Hendry, however, confirming to WUSA that no bodies have been recovered yet.
The couple, regarded as seasoned sailors, had sailed their yacht, Simplicity, from Hampton, Virginia, to Antigua in the past year. They had intended to make this journey to Grenada their “last grand trip,” as friend K.C. McAlpin voiced.
Their yacht was found abandoned on a beach on St. Vincent on February 18; the same day Grenadian police arrested three fleeing criminals. The culprits – Ron Mitchell, 30, Trevon Robertson, 19, and Abita Stanislaus, 25 – had been apprehended in December concerning a violent robbery. Mitchell faces additional charges, including rape and indecent assault.
Police believe the convicts commandeered the couple’s yacht in Grenada, proceeding to St. Vincent later. Investigators indicate the presence of evidence suggesting the couple’s murder, cautioning that the investigation is in its early stages. Their deaths remain unconfirmed.
Brandel and Hendry’s family issued a statement over the weekend expressing their gratitude for the ongoing support and care for the couple.