What was meant to be a peaceful sailing journey turned into a tragic crime. A kind-hearted American couple, known and loved in the sailing community, lost their lives in a horrific attack at sea. The three men responsible—who had escaped from a prison in Grenada—have now been sentenced. The case shocked many across the Caribbean and the United States and left a deep impact on those who knew the couple personally.
Who Were the Victims?
Ralph Hendry, 66, and Kathy Brandel, 71, were experienced sailors and longtime members of the Salty Dawg Sailing Association, a close-knit community of sailing enthusiasts. The couple, described as caring, helpful, and devout Christians, had recently taken part in a sailing rally from Hampton, Virginia to Antigua in late 2023. They were known for being cautious at sea and always willing to lend a helping hand.
Family friend and fellow sailor Will Knoll remembered them fondly, saying,
“They were always willing to give help to anyone in need, they were very giving people. It’s just a tragedy that this would occur to them.”
What Happened?
On February 18, 2024, three men—Ron Mitchell, Trevon Robertson, and Atiba Stanislaus—escaped from prison on the island nation of Grenada. After their escape, they hijacked the couple’s boat while it was sailing between Grenada and St. Vincent, two islands in the Caribbean. According to reports, the men threw the couple overboard, resulting in their deaths.
Authorities later confirmed that the three fugitives had reached St. Vincent, where they were arrested.
The Sentencing Details
After a full investigation and court hearings, the three men were given the following sentences:
Ron Mitchell
The main planner of the attack and a sailor in his 30s, received:
Two life sentences for the murders of Ralph and Kathy.
Trevon Robertson
A man in his early 20s, received:
56 years for manslaughter,
Additional prison time for other crimes connected to the attack.
Atiba Stanislaus
A farmer also in his 20s, received:
60 years for manslaughter,
An extra 18 years for the rape of Kathy Brandel,
More time for other charges including kidnapping.
A Devastating Loss for the Sailing Community
The news deeply saddened the sailing world, especially the members of the Salty Dawg Sailing Association. Ralph and Kathy were respected not just for their sailing skills but also for their warm and generous nature. Their tragic deaths have left a void in the community, and the crime serves as a harsh reminder that even experienced travelers can become victims of unexpected violence.
The sentencing of these three criminals brings some justice, but it cannot undo the loss of two kind and loving people. Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel spent their lives exploring the seas and helping others, only to face a heartbreaking end at the hands of dangerous men. Their story has touched hearts across nations, and their memory will live on in the sailing community and beyond. While justice has been served, the sadness remains.
