Authorities in Antigua are actively pursuing their investigation into the tragic death of Karen Johannsen, a tourist from Paradise View, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a violent assault at Dickenson Bay. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community and tourism sector, occurred on the morning of December 19, 2025.
According to official reports, police units responded to a distress call at approximately 11:00 a.m. following an attack on Ms. Johannsen, who was participating in a horseback riding excursion. Preliminary investigations indicate that an unidentified male assailant struck the victim from behind using a blunt object, inflicting severe cranial trauma. Emergency Medical Services promptly transported the critically injured tourist to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre for initial treatment.
Due to the gravity of her condition, medical authorities arranged for an emergency airlift to the United States for specialized neurological care. Despite intensive medical intervention at the University of Wisconsin Hospital, medical personnel pronounced Johannsen deceased at 10:17 p.m. local time on December 26, 2025, exactly one week after the brutal attack.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that a male suspect is currently detained in police custody and is cooperating with ongoing investigative procedures. The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has issued an official statement expressing profound condolences to Johannsen’s family and friends, acknowledging the devastating nature of her passing.
Investigators have appealed to the public for any information that might advance their inquiries, urging potential witnesses to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or utilize the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477). The case continues to develop as forensic experts and detectives work to establish a comprehensive timeline of events and motives behind this fatal encounter.