A British man is now dead and his wife injured following an attack Friday night on a boat moored off the Vieux Fort coast.
The dead man has been identified as 62-year-old Roger Pratt. Initial police reports indicated that Pratt was shot but this was subsequently corrected.
Tourism Minister Lorne Theophilus has released a statement on the homicide, expressing condolences to the family of the victims while assuring that St. Lucia remains “relatively safe for nationals and visitors alike” and that law enforcement is working to solve the case “speedily”.
Below is the full statement:
“It is with much regret that I and other industry partners have learnt of the unfortunate incident which has resulted in the loss of life of a visitor to our shores. At this time we extend our sincerest condolences to the family of British national Roger Pratt. To his wife, who also sustained injuries as a result of the attack off the Vieux Fort coast, we extend our deepest sympathies. Our prayers are with her for a speedy recovery.
“This is an active investigation and law enforcement is leading the charge in an attempt to bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice speedily. Law enforcement officials have brief myself and other senior tourism officials on aspects of the case although I am not at liberty to share some of those details with you at this time.
“Again I reiterate that this is an active investigation with details still unfolding and so we urge caution on the part of all in how information is shared and communicated, particularly via social media.
“I wish to assure you that as a destination Saint Lucia remains relatively safe for nationals and visitors alike, and we are fully committed to seeing this investigation through to a final conclusion.”