The Anguilla Tourist Board has released the following statement from ATB Chairperson Donna Banks on the recent incident at one of our resorts:
“The recent tragic incident involving the death of a local hotel employee, allegedly at the hand of a hotel guest, who has been charged with manslaughter, is a singular, unprecedented event. Kenny Mitchel was a husband, father, son and brother, and his untimely loss of life is painful beyond belief. Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to his family. We are certain that the guest in question, on leaving his home, never imagined the turn of events that would lead to his being charged with manslaughter. As Anguillians, we are all committed to ensuring that justice is served.
“The Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) is charged with carrying out the investigation. As a British Overseas Territory our judicial system is governed by English common law, adhering to the principles of a free and fair trial, and the defendant will have his day in court.
“The Anguilla Tourist Board has to date refrained from commenting on what is a criminal matter, whose outcome will be determined in the court of law. The incident is unprecedented in the 40 year history of our tourism industry. However, we recognize that our industry partners both on island and in our source markets, have legitimate inquiries and concerns as to the potential impact on Anguilla’s tourism industry.
“Anguilla is known as, and remains, a low-risk destination for all visitors and families, welcoming over 250,000 stay over arrivals and day-trippers each year. The Anguilla Tourist Board and the people of Anguilla especially appreciate the confidence of our many guests, who happily continue to visit and share not only their great experiences but also voice their confidence in the safety and security of our island. The Anguilla Tourist Board encourages all visitors to refer to the latest information on the US State Department website prior to travel; we are classified as a Level 1 destination (which is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk) where travelers are encouraged to exercise normal precautions.
“We are proud of our long-standing reputation for hospitality, borne out by our visitor repeat rate of over 70%. We welcomed and celebrated all visitors, who came in record-breaking numbers this winter season. We are grateful for the overwhelming expressions of support, and the deep reservoir of goodwill that Anguilla enjoys.
“We continue to work with all our stakeholders, to share the story of the true Anguilla experience, built on the foundation of the warmth and friendliness of Anguillians, and which has made us the #1 destination in the Caribbean.”
