BASSETERRE – A visiting cruise crew member who went missing died in a tragic fall from Mt Liamuiga while hiking on the island, authorities confirmed Wednesday. The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force said Ziyuan Wang, who was reported missing on May 27, fell from a significant height in a ravine far from the established trail. Police said a post mortem examination conducted Tuesday found no evidence of foul play.
Wang’s body was located on June 1 following an extensive search and recovery operation that involved multiple agencies and volunteers. The effort included personnel from the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force, St. Kitts and Rescue Services, the RSCNPF Training School, the St. Kitts Forestry Unit, the Red Cross Society, the Ross University K9 Unit, and numerous experienced volunteer hikers.
Police Commissioner described the recovery effort as a coordinated response involving both government agencies and civilian volunteers. Royal Caribbean Cruises and their local shipping agent, Delisle Walwyn & Co. Ltd., also provided assistance and cooperation throughout the process, the police said.
In a statement, the RSCNPF expressed gratitude to all agencies and individuals who participated in the search. “We owe a debt of gratitude to every agency and individual who gave themselves to this effort,” the force said, extending “deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to Mr Wang’s family, friends, and colleagues as they grieve this profound loss.”
The death was determined to be accidental based on the findings of the post mortem examination. Wang had been a crew member on a cruise ship when he ventured to Mt Liamuiga, one of the island’s most popular hiking destinations. The 3,792-foot volcanic mountain attracts hikers from around the world, but the terrain can be challenging and dangerous, particularly in areas away from maintained trails.
The incident marks a tragic reminder of the risks associated with hiking in remote or unfamiliar terrain.