Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

Turks and Caicos, July 18, 2025 – Authorities in the Turks and Caicos Islands have officially confirmed the identity of a body discovered earlier this month as that of missing U.S. tourist, Brian Patrick Tarrence. The 51-year-old New Yorker disappeared during the early hours of June 25 while vacationing on Providenciales with his wife.

The body was located on Saturday, July 5, following coordinated ground searches involving police, drone operators, volunteers, and community stakeholders. On Tuesday, July 16, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) announced the results of a forensic dental analysis that definitively identified the remains as Mr. Tarrence.  A preliminary autopsy, completed on July 11, revealed no signs of trauma.  Authorities said that at this stage, there is no suspicion of foul play.

Mr. Tarrence was last seen on CCTV around 3:30 a.m. walking away from the couple’s accommodations.  According to family representative and private investigator Carl DeFazio, there has been no activity on the tourist’s phone, credit cards, or bank accounts since that morning. His body was found approximately 20 minutes’ walk from his last known location.

While the confirmation brings some measure of closure, the nearly nine-day delay in identifying the body sparked public criticism, especially from media outlets and commentators both locally and abroad.  Legal commentators at Eagle Legal News described it as “unacceptable” that forensic identification still required overseas analysis.                                                                                                                                                                                           Adding to the tension were reports—largely from U.S.-based media outlets—that suggested Mr. Tarrence may have been murdered.  These assertions, however, were speculative and unsubstantiated by any official findings.  Local investigators and government officials have emphasized that while all possibilities are considered in an active case, no current evidence points to foul play.  As the investigation continues, authorities have urged patience and respect for due process.

“This is a deeply tragic outcome, and our hearts go out to Mr. Tarrence’s wife and family,” said Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos.  “We are committed to supporting them in any way we can during this difficult time.”

Minister of Tourism Hon. Zhavargo Jolly also extended condolences and praised the efforts of those who aided in the search.  “The entire Turks and Caicos community mourns this loss alongside the Tarrence family,” he said.  “We remain committed to the safety and well-being of all who visit.”

Officials await the final autopsy and toxicology reports to determine the exact cause of death. In the meantime, the RT&CIPF has reiterated its gratitude to the public for their patience and support.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the police or Crime Stoppers.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (July 16th, 2025) — The Ministry of Tourism and Experience Turks and Caicos confirm, with deep sadness, that the body found on July 5th is that of Mr. Brian Tarrence, a visitor from the United States who was reported missing on June 25th.
Mr. Tarrence was vacationing with his wife on Providenciales when he left their accommodations in the early hours of the morning. Extensive efforts were made to locate him, including ground searches, drone surveillance, CCTV analysis, and the involvement of local residents, volunteers, and tourism stakeholders. The body was found following a coordinated search operation led by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

Authorities have indicated there is no evidence of suspicious circumstances surrounding Mr. Tarrance’s disappearance or death. A full investigation is ongoing, and the appropriate authorities will continue to liaise with Mr. Tarrence’s family.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Tarrence,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon. Zhavargo Jolly. “We are grateful to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and to every individual, volunteer, and organisation who took part in the search. The entire Turks and Caicos community mourns this loss alongside the Tarrance family.”
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos, added: “This is a deeply tragic outcome, and our hearts go out to Mr. Tarrence’s wife and family. We are committed to supporting them in any way we can during this difficult time.”
The Turks and Caicos Islands remains committed to the safety and well-being of all who visit. This incident, while heartbreaking, has shown the strength and compassion of the local community.

Further details will be provided by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force as appropriate.

Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – July 14, 2025 – InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is celebrating a major milestone, as its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, has been named a finalist in the Global Visionary Doctor Leader category of the Caribbean Global Awards 2025.

This recognition highlights Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s outstanding commitment to advancing healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands through transformative leadership, strategic development, and dedication to patient care. Under her guidance, the TCI Hospital has consistently raised its standards, expanded critical services, and improved community wellness outcomes.

“We are excited to share some wonderful news that brings pride to the TCI Hospital,” the institution said in a public announcement. “Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s visionary leadership has not only transformed our hospital facilities but has also significantly impacted the broader healthcare landscape in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The Caribbean Global Awards celebrate the achievements of professionals of Caribbean heritage who are making significant contributions in healthcare, innovation, and development around the world.                                                                                                                                                                         In the Global Visionary Doctor Leader category, Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant is one of five outstanding nominees. The other finalists represent the United States, Trinidad and Tobago (two nominees), and St. Lucia.

The 2025 edition of the awards will culminate with a black-tie gala on September 27 at the prestigious Cumberland Hotel in London, United Kingdom. The event will bring together leaders, professionals, and dignitaries from across the Caribbean diaspora to recognize excellence and visionary impact across sectors.

Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s nomination marks a proud moment not only for the hospital but for the entire Turks and Caicos Islands, positioning the territory alongside global leaders in healthcare innovation.

“We are immensely proud of Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant’s achievements and are honoured to have her at the helm of the TCI Hospital,” the hospital’s statement continued. “This nomination is a testament to her dedication to the people of these islands.”

Supporters across the territory are being encouraged to extend congratulations and follow the awards journey as Dr. Braithwaite-Tennant represents the Turks and Caicos Islands on the global stage.