Remains of U.S. tourist found in Turks and Caicos after he vanished on vacation

The evening Brian Tarrence, 51, went missing, his wife had gone to bed. When she woke up, he was no longer at the Airbnb.

A body found in Turks and Caicos nearly two weeks ago has now been identified as Brian Tarrence, an American tourist who vanished while on vacation there last month.

On Wednesday, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) said that Tarrence’s remains were found during a search on July 5, but they were only able to confirm his identity on July 16 after receiving the results of a forensic dental analysis.

“An autopsy conducted on July 11th revealed no signs of trauma, and at this time, there is no suspicion of foul play,” police said in a media statement on Facebook. “The RT&CIPF continues to await the final autopsy and toxicology reports to complete the investigation.”

Police said Tarrence, 51, was last seen on June 25. Following a series of co-ordinated search operations, his body was located on July 5.

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

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Tarrence,” Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, Minister of Tourism, said.

“We are grateful to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and to every individual, volunteer, and organisation who took part in the search. The entire Turks and Caicos community mourns this loss alongside the Tarrence family.”

Paul Pennicook, interim CEO consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos, added: “This is a deeply tragic outcome, and our hearts go out to Mr. Tarrence’s wife and family. We are committed to supporting them in any way we can during this difficult time.”