by Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN) — The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force is investigating two tragic drowning incidents that have raised concerns about water safety in the region.
The incidents, which occurred on December 17 and 19, 2024, have resulted in the unfortunate deaths of two tourists: Gemma Manegable from Canada and Vivien-Ann Hammond from South England, United Kingdom.
The first incident took place on December 17, when Gemma Manegable, who was visiting the island aboard the cruise ship Oasis of the Seas, was found unresponsive at Carambola Beach Club in South Friar’s Bay.
Eyewitnesses reported that she had been swimming shortly before the alarming discovery. Emergency Medical Services and a medical professional present at the beach attempted to resuscitate her, but tragically, these efforts were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Just two days later, on December 19, Vivien-Ann Hammond, a visitor on the Spirit of Adventure Saga cruise ship, also became the victim of a suspected drowning at Cockle Shell Beach, located on the Southeast Peninsula.
Reports indicate that she collapsed after swimming, leading to an immediate response from the Emergency Medical Services and a health instructor from her cruise vessel.
Despite their best efforts to revive her, she, too, was pronounced dead at the scene.
As investigations into the circumstances of both drownings continue, authorities have announced that autopsies will be conducted to ascertain the precise causes of death.
The local community and the travel industry are deeply saddened by these developments, underscoring the importance of vigilance and safety in water activities as the holiday season begins.
