Convicted Escapees Accused of Murdering American Couple on Caribbean Yacht
Three escaped prisoners, who were recaptured, have been charged with murder in the deaths of an American couple who were sailing in the Caribbean.
Police reported that three escaped convicts have been charged with murder in the deaths of an American couple whose yacht was hijacked in the Caribbean and found with signs of a violent struggle.
The Royal Grenada Police Force announced on March 7 that Ron Mitchell, Trevon Robertson, and Abita Stanislaus are facing two counts of capital murder for causing the death of Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry, whose bodies have not been located after the suspects allegedly threw them overboard.
All three have also been charged with other crimes, including robbery, kidnapping, and escaping lawful custody.
Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel, a couple from Virginia, were sailing in the Caribbean on their catamaran Simplicity when it was discovered on Feb. 19 off Grand Anse Beach in Grenada, showing evidence of a violent struggle, as described by their family in a previous statement.
The suspects, who had escaped prison and taken over the couple’s yacht, are believed to be responsible for the couple’s murder, according to police.
On Feb. 22, the Royal Grenada Police Force reported that the three men likely traveled to St. Vincent on a yacht from the St. George area, where they may have killed the yacht’s occupants.
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A long-time family friend expressed deep sadness over the tragic end to the couple’s lives and condemned the senseless violence that took them.
The couple’s sons issued a statement on February 27, expressing profound sadness at the presumed deaths of their parents.
They remembered their parents as bringing light and warmth to those around them, and expressed hope for justice to be served.
What Happened?
According to police, the three suspects escaped from a holding cell on February 18, a day before the abandoned U.S. couple’s yacht was discovered. Mr. Mitchell was facing charges of robbery and violence, while also being accused of additional charges of rape and assault.
The SDSA described the couple as warmhearted and skilled sailors. They were found by a cruising skipper abandoned and showing signs of violence off a beach in St. Vincent.
Police were alerted, leading to the subsequent discovery that three dangerous inmates had escaped and were potentially involved in the incident.
The couple’s family extended gratitude to volunteers and law enforcement for their efforts in addressing the tragedy.
Authorities confirmed that the three suspects appeared in court on March 7 and are currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.
