A dream Caribbean sail turned into a nightmare for a beloved American couple, Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel, after their yacht, "Simplicity," was found abandoned off the coast of St. Vincent. Authorities believe the couple, in their 60s and originally from Virginia, may have been harmed or even killed by three escaped prisoners who stole the yacht.
The terrifying ordeal began on February 18th when Ron Mitchell, Trevon Robertson, and Abita Stanislaus, all facing serious charges, broke free from jail in Grenada. Their escape set in motion a chain of events with tragic consequences.
Days later, "Simplicity" was discovered drifting, abandoned, and bearing signs of violence. The discovery sparked a desperate search for Hendry and Brandel, who were known and loved within the sailing community as longtime members of the Salty Dawg Sailing Association.
According to the association, a kind stranger found the yacht and alerted authorities after noticing the couple's absence and disturbing evidence onboard. The Coast Guard secured the vessel, and investigations began in collaboration with the St. Vincent police and the US Embassy.
Grenadian authorities believe Hendry and Brandel may have encountered the escaped prisoners while enjoying a night out in town. The details of what transpired remain unclear, but the grim possibility that the couple fell victim to violence hangs heavy in the air.
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Despite the bleak outlook, Hendry's sister, Suellen Desmarais, refuses to give up hope. She described the couple's trip as a "once-in-a-lifetime" adventure they had been planning for twelve years. In her words, "They are the kindest people in the entire world," and she cannot fathom the reason behind such a senseless tragedy.
Desmarais clings to the possibility that her brother and sister-in-law are still alive. "You have to presume they're still alive until further notice," she declared, highlighting the family's unwavering hope and their relentless pursuit of answers.
The search for Hendry and Brandel, along with the pursuit of the escaped prisoners, continues. As the story unfolds, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the families during this incredibly difficult time. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk, even in seemingly idyllic settings, and the unwavering hope that families hold onto in the face of unimaginable circumstances.
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