The partner of Sarm Heslop, the missing British sailor, has publicly addressed the situation in a detailed five-page statement, firmly denying any role in her vanishing. Ryan Bane, an American, emphasized that they were a devoted couple and defended his actions following her disappearance from their yacht, Siren Song, in the US Virgin Islands in March 2021.
Bane explained that his decision to seek legal counsel immediately, decline police questioning, and prevent a forensic search of the vessel was to protect his legal rights, not to evade scrutiny. He expressed frustration at being unfairly targeted and misunderstood in the media coverage surrounding the case.
The recent BBC documentary, “Missing in Paradise: Searching for Sarm,” unveiled new CCTV footage capturing the couple together just before Heslop went missing. Bane highlighted the footage as evidence of their affectionate relationship and criticized the media for allegedly distorting facts and court records.
The last confirmed sighting of Heslop was on the night she disappeared, as captured in the CCTV footage. Bane recounted waking up to find her missing, contacting the police promptly, and later reaching out to the US Coast Guard. Speculations about his actions during the crucial hours have persisted, with Bane asserting that the investigation has been compromised by authorities.
Despite hiring a private investigator and facing scrutiny over past legal issues, Bane denied any involvement in Heslop’s disappearance. He urged attention to what he referred to as gaps in the official handling of the case and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation.
Heslop’s family has pressed for a comprehensive forensic search of Siren Song, a request Bane resisted before selling the boat. The case remains unresolved, leaving unanswered questions surrounding the mysterious disappearance.