Colker’s husband, 62-year-old Brian Melito, survived the attack and sent for help. The suspect fled into nearby mangroves, according to local reports.
“The Embassy is working closely with officials investigating Ms. Colker’s death, and asks that the public respects her family’s privacy during this difficult time,” the U.S. Embassy in Barbados said, per the New York Daily News.
Colker was a physician’s assistant who worked at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, according to AJC.com. Her husband was also a physician.
“Jessica was a valued member of our Children’s team,” hospital spokeswoman Julie Holkeboer said. “We are deeply saddened by this horrific news. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family during this very difficult time.”
Sue Hardy, a British journalist who was staying at La Sagesse, described where Colker was killed.
“No one can see you there---but of course nobody can see if anyone attacks you there,” she said, per Caribbean360.com. “I wouldn’t venture on to that other, hidden, beach again,” she added.
Colker is the second foreigner who was murdered in Grenada in recent weeks. In December, a Canadian national, Linnea Veinotte, was killed. A suspect was charged with her murder.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
