Ralph Hendry : “US couple missing after yacht hijacking, feared overboard”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : An American couple who were feared dead after their catamaran yacht was hijacked by three escaped prisoners were likely thrown overboard in the Caribbean Sea, authorities said Monday. Ralph Hendry, 66, and his wife, Kathy Brandel, 71, were last known to be near Grand Anse Beach in Grenada. Their catamaran, named “Simplicity,” was found abandoned in St. Vincent and signs of violence were evident at the scene, according to Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force spokesperson Junior Simmons.

**Hijacking and Discovery of the Yacht**
The tragic incident unfolded when the three prisoners escaped from the South St. George Police Station on Feb. 18. They hijacked the catamaran on the following day and traveled to the nearby island of St. Vincent, where they were apprehended last Wednesday, according to Don McKenzie, police commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force.

**Fate of the Couple**
Police suspect that the escaped prisoners disposed of the couple while traveling between Grenada and St. Vincent. Although there is no conclusive evidence of the couple’s demise, authorities have determined there is a low probability of their survival. The suspects are now under investigation for various criminal acts, including bodily harm to the couple, as indicated by Simmons.

**Prisoners’ Background and Escape**
The three escaped prisoners were identified as Ron Mitchell, 30; Trevon Robertson, 19; and Abita Stanislaus, 25. All three had been previously charged with violent crimes, including robbery and rape. The escape has prompted a thorough investigation to determine whether it was due to a system failure or a lapse in security measures.

**Discovery of the Yacht**
The Salty Dawg Sailing Association was alerted by a cruising skipper about the abandoned catamaran near St. Vincent. Upon investigation, evidence of violence was found on board, leading to the involvement of local authorities and the U.S. Embassy in the ongoing investigation.

**Community Mourning**
The sailing community and families of the couple are devastated by the loss of Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel. The couple, who were seasoned sailors, had participated in various sailing events and were well-respected members of the sailing association. Their families have expressed their gratitude for the support and assistance received during this difficult time.

**Travel Advisories in the Caribbean**
The incident has raised concerns about safety in the Caribbean region, with travel advisories issued for various countries. While Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have Level 1 advisories, caution is advised for travelers visiting other islands with higher threat levels. The U.S. State Department continues to monitor the situation and provide updates to ensure the safety of U.S. citizens in the region.

In a tragic turn of events, the American couple’s disappearance has shocked the sailing community and highlighted the risks associated with maritime travel in the Caribbean. As investigations continue, authorities are working diligently to bring closure to the families of Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel..