The search for a missing 61-year-old eco-tour guide took a somber turn Sunday when St. Thomas Rescue teams discovered what are believed to be human remains in a dense, vegetated area near Magens Bay. The remains were found at 2:45 p.m. by a specialized search dog, although authorities have yet to officially confirm the identity.
“At this time, it is believed that the remains may belong to the reported missing person, Kevin Highfield, though confirmation is pending further investigation by the Virgin Islands Police Department,” St. Thomas Rescue said in a statement late Sunday.
The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) also said in a release late Sunday night that it is continuing its investigation.
The search, which began on Thursday morning, involved more than 32 local volunteers alongside federal and local responders from the U.S. Coast Guard, St. John Rescue, Magens Bay Authority, VI Justice Department, and Search and Rescue of Central Florida. Drones, divers, and search dogs were deployed in the area as teams scoured trails and the bay itself. “The community stepped up in a big way,” said St. Thomas Rescue spokesperson Chris Watson. “Everyone involved worked tirelessly.”
Highfield, a respected figure in the eco-tourism industry, was last heard from on Wednesday morning when he planned to join a hiking tour at Magens Bay. When he didn’t arrive, friends grew concerned after finding his truck parked at the bay, with personal belongings such as his phone and wallet left inside. Search efforts quickly escalated over the next two days, covering both land and water areas near Magens Bay.
Highfield was a well-known guide, admired for his knowledge of marine life and his dedication to the Virgin Islands community. In addition to guiding tours, he gave swimming lessons to local children and led night kayak trips. Friends and colleagues described him as intelligent, friendly, and deeply passionate about the environment.
VIPD’s Major Crimes Unit is now leading the investigation, and they encourage anyone with information to contact the department at 340-774-2211, the Major Crimes Division at 340-642-8449, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
