Escaped Inmates Charged with Murder of U.S. Couple in Caribbean Hijacking

On the eastern Caribbean island of Grenada, three escaped inmates have been charged in the tragic killing of a U.S. couple whose catamaran they hijacked, the police announced Thursday.

Suspects and Charges

The suspects, identified as Ron Mitchell (30 years old), Atiba Stanislaus (25 years old), and Trevon Robertson (23 years old), have been charged with capital murder, escaping lawful custody, housebreaking, robbery, and kidnapping. Additionally, Stanislaus faces one count of rape, as stated by the Royal Grenada Police Force.

Tragic Events

The ill-fated catamaran, named "Simplicity," was seized by the three escaped prisoners while it had two individuals on board. The vessel was later discovered docked in Calliaqua, St. Vincent, on February 23, 2024.

Court Appearance and Detainment

The accused appeared in court on Thursday and have been remanded in custody until their hearing, scheduled for late March. The timeline of events indicates that the inmates broke out of a police holding cell on February 18, subsequently commandeering the catamaran belonging to Ralph Henry and Kathy Brandel, who were onboard at the time. Authorities suspect that the couple was thrown overboard during the suspects' journey to nearby St. Vincent, where they were apprehended on February 21.

Deportation and Continuing Investigation

Following their arrest in St. Vincent, the three men have been ordered to be deported. It is worth noting that the bodies of the victims have not yet been recovered.

Victims Described as "Warm-hearted and Capable"

Ralph Henry and Kathy Brandel, described as "veteran cruisers," were esteemed members of the nonprofit Salty Dawg Sailing Association. The couple participated in the previous year's Caribbean Rally from Hampton, Virginia, to Antigua, and had intentions of spending the winter cruising in the eastern Caribbean.

Family's Testimonial

The family of the deceased couple provided a heartfelt statement, portraying them as individuals who embodied kindness and positivity. They emphasized the couple's significant impact and the enduring values they represented, leaving a lasting positive influence on the world.

Impact on Community

Friends and associates of Brandel and Hendry echoed their warm and compassionate nature, expressing deep sadness over the events. The couple is remembered fondly for their generosity and the joy they brought to the lives of those around them.

Support and Remembrance

Efforts to commemorate the victims included a GoFundMe page which highlighted Brandel's recent milestone of becoming a first-time grandmother. The page has garnered substantial support, raising over $75,000 as of the most recent update.

Remembering a Beloved Couple

Close acquaintances of the couple expressed their sorrow at the premature conclusion of Brandel and Hendry's final sailing expedition, emphasizing their vibrant personalities and the positive impact they had on others.