Cupe Coy:--- Police on St. Maarten are busy investigating the gruesome murder of a couple that was vacationing on the island at the Ocean Club Resort in Cupe Coy. According to information reaching SMN News, the bodies were found by a well known restaurateur from Simpson Bay. It is not yet clear what type of relationship the businessman had with the victims and how long they were on the island.
The victims have been identified as Micheal and Thelma King of South Carolina who are also part-time residents of St. Maarten since they owned several homes on the island.
STATEMENT FROM THE GOVERNMENT OF ST. MAARTEN.
Officials of the Government of St. Maarten issued an immediate statement upon hearing about the murder of two American citizens in St. Maarten.
"Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the couple found murdered at the Ocean Club in
St. Maarten. Since the incident is still under investigation, we cannot comment about the details
at this time, but we can assure you that every government resource is being brought into play toinvestigate and solve this case."
STATEMENT FROM EMIL LEE, PRESIDENT OF SHTA.
"The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association is outraged at the attack and murder of two Americans on St. Maarten. We join the people of St. Maarten in expressing our sincere condolences to the family and friends of this couple and support the efforts that have been placed by the police in quickly working to bring the culprits to justice. St Maarten is a small, diverse and close knit community. This tragedy pains everyone in the community deeply."
Press release issued by Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos concerning the murders.
Late this morning Police were informed about a possible crime scene in a house at the Ocean Club Resort in Cupecoy. Upon arrival Police discovered the lifeless bodies of a man and a woman. Both appeared to have sustained lethal stab wounds.
The woman was tied onto a chair. The man was lying on the floor and partially over another chair. The motive of this horrific crime is yet unclear. The doctor who was at the crime scene found no indication whatsoever of a possible sexual motive. Speculations earlier today were suggesting this.
Police have secured the crime scene and the forensic department of the Sint Maarten Police Force have been conducting a thorough investigation. Subsequently a house search was conducted on judge's order. This search was completed at 6.30 PM.
Police officers have been questioning numerous possible witnesses that might be able to contribute to the investigation.
Although information on the identity of both victims has been out, Police have not been able to conduct a formal identification, as next of kin have not yet been informed. The Public Prosecutor's Office has been in contact with the American Consul in Curaçao and has requested the Consul to inform the family members. As long as no formal identification has taken place no information on the identity of the victims can be divulged.
A Police investigation team of 25 officers are involved in the investigation.