CHARLESTOWN, Nevis - A male resident of Jessups Village died yesterday (Apr. 19) following a boat mishap in the Caribbean Sea some five miles off the coast of Nevis.
A press release from the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) stated that officers had received a report of a boating incident that occurred just off the coast of Nevis.
Investigations revealed that a Jessups resident, 58-year-old Ishmael Hanley, was transported to the Alexandra Hospital where he succumbed to injuries inflicted by the propeller of a passenger boat.
The report police received, stated that at approximately 1:45 p.m. yesterday, a boat bearing the name ‘Point Proven’, belonging to the company Islander Water Sports, was near the Nevis coast and travelling towards the Four Seasons Resort on Nevis with two crew members, seven guests and the captain onboard.
“While at an approximate distance of five minutes offshore, the boat captain reported that he felt the impact of something under the boat. Upon checking, he saw a man (later identified as Ishmael Hanley) in the water, waving for assistance. The captain took Hanley onto the boat and transported him to Charlestown Pier where he was then transported to the Alexandra Hospital. Regrettably, Hanley succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead on arrival,” the statement read.
Questions were asked of the police on whether Hanley was swimming within the swim zone, but they could not give a detailed answer, noting that he was half mile out which might be an indication that he was not in that zone.
The police however indicated that if any evidence of criminal intent or criminal negligence is found, charges would be laid.
The press release also stated that “the RSCNPF extends its deepest condolences to those who are impacted by Mr. Handley’s untimely passing”, and that further investigations into the incident are ongoing and the general public would be updated appropriately.
