Missing man's body found following Turks and Caicos disappearance

The body of a man missing for three weeks on Turks and Caicos Islands has been found, local authorities confirmed this week.

The body of Brian Tarrence, 52, was found on July 5 on Grace Bay, said the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) on social media. A dental specialist identified the remains as Tarrence’s through dental analysis, authorities said.

According to police, an autopsy was conducted and investigators found no signs of trauma.

“At this time, there is no suspicion of foul play,” the police force wrote on July 16, adding that the agency is waiting for the final autopsy and toxicology reports to complete the investigation. 

“The RT&CIPF extends our condolences to Mr. Tarrence’s family and friends during this difficult time,” police wrote. We thank the public for their patience and support as we continue the investigation.”

Here’s how the investigation into Tarrence’s disappearance has played out so far.

Previous coverage: Police in Turks and Caicos recover body amid search for missing man

New York man last seen in June

Tarrence is from New York and was 51 when and was last seen on June 25. The following day, someone reported him missing, Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force said. 

The agency first asked for the public’s help finding him on June 26, noting in a missing person’s poster that he was last seen at the Paradise Inn at Grace Bay.

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Acting Assistant Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Dwight Gardiner and Acting Superintendent of Serious Crimes Grantley Williams released an update on the case on July 3.

According to Gardiner, local authorities have done “daily systematic search operations in the surrounding areas,” including ground patrols, drone surveillance, and a detailed review of CCTV footage. 

Tarrence and his wife were vacationing in the area when, around 3:30 a.m. on June 25, he left his room, said Williams. Based on CCTV footage, police have confirmed that he was walking alone in the Grace Bay Area in those early morning hours.

Gardiner said there would be specialized teams searching the area, and the agency’s primary concern is the well-being of Tarrence.

“At this time, we have no information indicating that mister Tarrence has been harmed, and we have intensified our efforts,” Gardiner said. “Accordingly, our thoughts and prayers are with the relatives at this time.”

Another person remains missing

On July 3, Gardiner and Williams also gave updates on Beata Sylwia Young, a 49-year-old woman who went missing on June 16. According to Gardiner, police have also searched using drones, horseback units, ATVs, and conducted interviews with those who last saw her.

Gardiner said on July 3 that “the Turks and Caicos Islands remain a safe and welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike, and we deeply appreciate the continued trust, support, and cooperation of the public.”

Investigation underway

On July 5, police announced that authorities were searching in Grace Bay when they found a man’s body “in a state of decomposition.”

Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams said in a press release that the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force extends condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. 

“We urge members of the public to refrain from speculation and allow the investigative process to confirm the identity through official channels,” Adams said. “This matter remains under active investigation.”

Police ask that anyone with information on the cases contact 911 or 1-800-8477.