A northern Virginia couple, Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel, have gone missing while sailing in the Caribbean. Authorities in Grenada suspect that the couple were killed by three escaped prisoners who stole their yacht. The couple's boat was discovered abandoned in Saint Vincent, showing signs of being "ransacked" and indicating a violent incident had occurred. The Royal Grenada Police Force is investigating the case and believes that the American citizens on board the yacht may have been killed by the escaped prisoners.

Ralph's sister, Suellen Desmarais, remains hopeful and is holding out faith that the couple may still be alive. The three escaped prisoners were recaptured on February 21. The couple's children are currently in the Caribbean, working closely with local authorities on the investigation. The community, including the Salty Dog sailing association to which the couple belonged, has been shaken by the tragic events. The president of the group, Rob Osborn, emphasized the rarity of such incidents in the typically friendly islands, expressing shock over the situation.

The Coast Guard and the State Department have been contacted for assistance in the case. As the investigation unfolds, friends, family, and authorities are working together to shed light on the mysterious disappearance of Ralph and Kathy in the Caribbean waters.