Three prison escapees from a Caribbean island are facing capital murder charges, among other serious offenses, for the presumed deaths of a retired American couple. Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel were allegedly thrown overboard after the escapees from a Grenada prison hijacked their yacht and fled about 70 miles to the island of St. Vincent.
The suspects, Ron Mitchell, Trevon Robertson, and Abita Stanislaus, were recaptured on St. Vincent and sent back to Grenada. They have been charged with two counts of capital murder, escaping lawful custody, housebreaking, robbery, kidnapping, and in the case of Stanislaus, rape.
The victims, Hendry and Brandel, were living in Virginia when they retired and sold their possessions to buy and live on their yacht named 'Simplicity.' The yacht was found in a distressed state, covered in blood, after the suspects allegedly took it by force off Grand Anse Beach in Grenada.
The bodies of the American couple have not been recovered, and their sons, Nick Buro and Bryan Hendry, have expressed their grief and shared fond memories of their parents. They described Ralph and Kathy as individuals who lived a life full of adventure, love, and compassion.
Authorities are still investigating how the prisoners managed to escape from custody. The Royal Grenada Police Force has initiated an internal investigation into the matter.
As the case unfolds, the focus remains on remembering the lives of Ralph and Kathy, who brought light and joy to those around them. Their sons have emphasized the positive impact their parents had on others and the lasting legacy of love and kindness they leave behind.