Back in November 1961, a startling revelation unfolded amidst the Caribbean Sea when Terry Jo Duperrault, an 11-year-old girl, was discovered adrift alone on a small cork raft, sunburnt, dehydrated, and barely conscious.
She emerged as the lone survivor of a brutal massacre that had tragically claimed the lives of her entire family.
The Duperrault family, well-regarded residents of Green Bay, Wisconsin, led by Arthur, a prosperous optometrist, had meticulously saved for a special “once-in-a-lifetime holiday,” embarking on a sailing adventure through the Bahamas to escape the harsh northern winter.
Arthur, his wife Jean, and their children Brian, Terry Jo, and René, had orchestrated a week of sunshine, snorkelling, and cherished family moments aboard a chartered yacht named Bluebelle.
The vessel, a 60-foot twin-masted ketch, was under the helm of Julian Harvey, a decorated World War II veteran and experienced sailor, accompanied by his wife Mary Dene, a former air hostess and aspiring writer, according to reports from the Express.
The alignment seemed ideal, with Harvey’s nautical expertise complementing the Duperraults’ desire for relaxation. Setting off from Fort Lauderdale, Bluebelle cruised to Bimini and Sandy Point, where the family engaged in shell collecting and creating lasting memories.
Local residents recalled them as cheerful and generous, with Arthur even expressing to a British district commissioner that this vacation was a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, affirming a swift return before Christmas.
On the ill-fated night of November 12, 1961, as the boat departed for Florida, the family enjoyed a communal dinner. Subsequently, Terry Jo retired to her cabin below deck while the rest remained above board.
Her slumber was abruptly disrupted by her brother’s cries and heavy footfalls overhead.
Ascending, she encountered a chilling scene – her mother and brother lifeless on the floor amidst pools of blood. Julian Harvey then materialized, commanding her downstairs with a stern “Get back down there!” Terrified, she obeyed as water inundated the vessel.
Harvey reemerged, this time wielding a rifle. A wordless exchange ensued before he headed back up the stairs.
Shortly after, Terry Jo heard what she recognized as
