MAN DROWNS NEAR VIRGIN GORDA

A sailing trip turned tragic near Virgin Gorda when a  54-year-old man drowned.

Police responded to a report of a drowning on December 17, 2005 at 1:12 p.m., at The Baths, Virgin Gorda.  Investigations revealed that the body of 54-year-old Elliot Hodge of Long Trench (alias, “Death”) was met lying on the beach.   According to the Police Information Office, it was established that at about 12:45p.m., while on a sailing trip on a yacht, along with his girlfriend and others, Hodge and his party disembarked and boarded a 12 feet inflatable dinghy.  Police reports indicate that the water was choppy with an under current and the dinghy was unable to reach to the beach. Hodge began swimming towards the beach however he experienced some difficulties.

It was reported that persons who were on the beach tried to assist Hodge, but he was unresponsive; CPR was rendered but proved futile.   Dr. Crentsil arrived on the scene about 1:35 p.m., examined the body and found no vital signs.