Two visitors die amid rough seas

A section of The Baths, Virgin Gorda. Photo Credit: mgmyachts.com

Two visitors died within the past three days after encountering difficulties while they swam in the waters of the British Virgin Islands, which has been experiencing rough sea conditions all week.

A 61-year-old woman from Missouri in the United States, whose identity is yet to be released, died this morning (March 10) at The Baths on Virgin Gorda.

“The deceased and her husband were reportedly swimming from a dinghy to shore when she complained that she could not breathe. Her husband then assisted her to shore where she became unresponsive. Resuscitation attempts proved futile,” said the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).

Meanwhile, on Wednesday this week, a male citizen of the United States died after encountering difficulties off the cost of Guana Island.

He is 67-year-old Edward Angeli.

“The deceased reportedly went for a swim after he, his wife and a party of eight anchored off Guana Island. He encountered difficulties and was brought back onboard. Persons in the area attempted to assistance him and he was later transported to Peebles Hospital by VISAR,” said the RVIPF.

Angeli was pronounced dead at Peebles Hospital.

Although drowning was suspected, it is important to note that post mortem examinations are yet to be conducted in relation to the two deaths.

In the meantime, the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) this afternoon advised: “Warnings remain in place for small craft operators and sea bathers as the territory continues to experience hazardous sea conditions along with strong gusty winds.”

“The latest forecast from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services has indicated that very rough swells are expected with waves between 7 and 10 feet,” added the DDM.

This story has been updated to reflect additional information from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.

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