Police have formally charged Soufrière resident Lester Jean, better known as “Soya,” with trespassing and grievous harm following an alleged attack on an American yacht owner.
Jean was arrested and charged on August 7 after a report was made to law enforcement. He was subsequently taken before the court for a bail hearing.
The charges stem from an incident after a deadly boat collision near Anse Cochon. Jean, who reportedly survived the collision, allegedly swam with other survivors towards a yacht owned by an American national.
While aboard the vessel, Jean allegedly attacked the owner, causing him serious injuries. The circumstances surrounding the alleged confrontation have not been disclosed.
The marine collision occurred at approximately 11:55 pm on Saturday, July 18, and involved two vessels.
According to reports, the two vessels were travelling in opposite directions with no lights when the vessels collided. Police have since recovered the wreckage of both boats along with four bodies.
Fourteen people were injured and taken to Soufriere Hospital. Those with more serious injuries were later transferred to the OKEU and Tapion hospitals for further care.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collision remain ongoing.
