Body found in ransacked property

Andrew Frederick, 47, a British father, was found dead in a ransacked property on the Caribbean island of Grenada on 4 January. An autopsy performed that week ruled his death a homicide.

Autopsy showed torture and blunt force trauma

The pathologist's report stated Frederick had suffered blunt force trauma, was tortured including by removal of his toenail, and ruled the death a homicide. The findings were clear and categorical.

Grenadian police closed the case

Despite the autopsy evidence, Grenadian police found there was no basis that any homicide had occurred and closed the investigation. The family was forced to focus on fighting for justice instead of grieving.

Organs missing from repatriated body

After a sustained campaign, British authorities became involved and Frederick's body was repatriated to the UK in August. A second autopsy discovered his organs were missing, including his brain, heart and lungs.

“For six weeks after his death, Andrew's body was held under the control of the Grenadian authorities.”

Family describes discovery as devastating

The family said the discovery was shocking and devastating. They have received no explanation of where the organs are, what happened to them, or why they were never told about their removal.

“That discovery has been shocking and absolutely devastating for our family.”

Charity demands UK government intervention

The Murdered Abroad charity has called on the foreign affairs select committee to step in.

“If a family this determined cannot get the FCDO to put their diplomatic powers to good use, what hope is there for the 60 to 80 families bereaved by murder abroad each year?”

Formal cooperation request still unsigned

A UK coroner asked the Metropolitan police to conduct an investigation.A British high commissioner raised Frederick's case with Grenadian officials at the highest levels of government, who agreed to cooperate.

Early delays damaged investigation

Former Scotland Yard homicide commander David Johnston said initial mishandling and delays could harm the investigation. In homicide cases, the first twenty-four hours are most critical for preserving evidence and crime scenes.

“In a homicide investigation we have a phrase that we refer to as the golden hours, which are the first real 24 hours.”

Family appeals to Grenada's prime minister

Almost ten months after Frederick's death, the family appealed to Grenada's prime minister, who is also minister of national security, to sign the cooperation request without further delay.They said each passing day deepens their heartbreak.

“With each passing day, our family's heartbreak deepens. We need closure.”