A British man who was left fighting for his life after being attacked by bandits in Soufriere has been released from local hospital.
Jude St. Prix, from London, had his arm slashed in a sickening machete attack as he intervened to stop the bandits from robbing patrons who were visiting his ‘New Jerusalem’ pool and spa retreat in Zenon, near Soufriere.
St Prix, 65, who manages the popular Mineral baths in Soufriere was set upon by three masked robbers after trying to rescue tourists who were being robbed of their valuables and jewelry on his property.
He sustained multiple injuries to the head and hands inflicted by the bandits, which resulted in a minor stroke. He was immediately taken to hospital where he was kept for a few days before being released a few days ago.
A nurse from the emergency unit confirmed that St.Prix, was admitted to the hospital where he received treatment and has returned home after a short stay in the institution. She revealed that he will be making further visits before he is given the all clear.
“Mr. St Prix was taken to hospital where he was in a serious condition. He was beaten up by hoodlums who came to rob tourists who were visiting his popular mineral baths retreat,” said a family friend, who lives in Zenon. ” He Suffered a stroke. His family was informed of what transpired. He has two grown-up children in England.” Adds the family source, “He was released from the hospital and he has returned home.”
According to local reports St Prix who comes from Tottenham, North London, was about to welcome a group of mainly American tourists when the incident took place. He has been living in St Lucia for many years now since his wife died from breast cancer some time ago in the UK.
The thieves managed to escape with cash, jewelry, and other valuables before police arrived.
He was born in St Lucia and migrated to the UK in the early 70’s where he became a British citizen. The New Jerusalem Mineral Baths retreat which he manages belongs to his family.
According to an advert in the local press, the baths contain warm pools of water that are equipped with seating areas with three different temperatures of water flowing from bamboo faucets from 6ft. above. The pressure creates a nice warm body massage helping to soothe aching muscles.
A police spokesman from the local CID said they are investigating the attack and will release a statement shortly.
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