A beloved American tour operator who spent her days guiding visitors along Antigua’s stunning beaches has died after suffering a vicious assault while on the job, authorities confirmed.
Karen Johannsen, 66, of Madison, Wisconsin, was attacked earlier this month while leading a horseback riding tour along the island’s shoreline. She was beaten so severely that doctors later determined her injuries were unsurvivable, according to local reports.
Police said the attack happened around 11 a.m. on December 19 at Dickenson Bay. Officers from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda responded to the scene and found Johannsen unconscious.
In a press release, authorities said Johannsen was riding on a trail when a man struck her in the head with an unknown object. She was rushed to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre for emergency treatment before being airlifted to the University of Wisconsin Hospital for further care.
According to Johannsen’s family, she suffered devastating injuries, including a massive head injury, a fractured jaw, and multiple broken bones. Her brain damage was so severe that she was placed on life support and was unable to breathe on her own. Doctors told relatives she would never regain neurological function.
Johannsen’s condition continued to deteriorate, and she died on December 26.
Authorities launched a homicide investigation and said a man is currently in custody for questioning. Johannsen’s sister, Lyn, told WMTV that the man being questioned is a former boyfriend, though police have not released his name or announced formal charges.
Johannsen had deep roots in Wisconsin. She was the daughter of the owners of Johannsen’s Greenhouse, a longtime Madison business that operated for about 50 years before closing in 2013.
In recent years, Johannsen had made Antigua her home, building a life around her passion for horses and the island’s natural beauty. She frequently shared photos and updates on social media showcasing her horseback riding tours and her strong connection to Antigua’s tourism community.
Police extended condolences to Johannsen’s loved ones and urged anyone with information related to the case to contact the Criminal Investigations Department.
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda also issued a statement mourning her death. In remarks shared with Antigua News, Minister Fernandez praised Johannsen’s impact on the island.
“On behalf of the Government and People of Antigua and Barbuda, I extend our deepest condolences on the untimely passing of your beloved sister, Karen,” the statement read. “She was a wonderful person who brought joy and warmth to everyone she met, especially here in Antigua, where she loved so dearly.”
Fernandez described Johannsen as a dedicated contributor to Antigua’s tourism industry through her coastal horseback riding experiences and said her loss would be felt deeply across the island.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time,” the statement continued. “May her memory be a source of comfort and her spirit live on in the hearts of all who knew her.”
We hope the perpetrator n will be caught and justice served