St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands — January 27, 2026 — The Virgin Islands Police Department
Marine Unit is investigating the discovery of a deceased male found along the shoreline of
Protestant Cay.
At approximately 7:45 a.m. on January 27, 2026, the 911 Emergency Call Center received a
report from an employee of Hotel on the Cay Beach regarding a possible deceased individual
floating in the water near the pump room. Marine Unit officers were dispatched to the
location and, upon arrival, observed an unresponsive male lying face down in the water along
the shoreline.
Officers immediately assessed the individual for signs of life. The male was pronounced
deceased at 8:31 a.m.
The deceased was later identified by a family member as Mr. Llewellyn Merrick, age 72.
The Virgin Islands Police Department extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved
ones of Mr. Merrick during this difficult time. The circumstances surrounding the incident
remain under investigation. Preliminary investigations revealed no suspected foul play at this
time, pending official autopsy.
