Statement on Incident at the Opening Celebrations of Pirates Week 2026

The Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage and the Cayman Islands Government as a whole is aware of the unfortunate incident that occurred at approximately 8:45 p.m. on Saturday, 7 November 2026, during the official opening celebrations of Pirates Week 2026, in George Town, Grand Cayman.

The incident, which involved a Jeep Wrangler being driven through an area occupied by festivalgoers understandably has caused much concern among those in attendance, and throughout the community, particularly given the presence of families and young children. While videos and accounts of the events circulating on social media have highlighted the jarring nature of the incident, we are currently working with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) and security personnel to determine what occurred as the Jeep Wrangler breached the perimeter of the event and entered through the crowd travelling from Elmslie Memorial Church to Kirk Freeport Building.

The Ministry wishes to reassure the public that the situation was swiftly brought under control through the courageous intervention of members of the public, supported by the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS), private security personnel and Ministry staff.

Hon. Isaac Rankine, Minister of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, commented:
"What unfolded on Saturday evening was undoubtedly jarring for those who witnessed it, particularly the families and children who had gathered to enjoy our national celebration. In the midst of what could have been a tragedy, we witnessed extraordinary courage, compassion and humanity of residents and visitors alike and we thank you.

I wish to personally commend those brave individuals who, without hesitation, placed themselves in harm's way to protect others. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the visiting doctor who immediately stepped forward to provide any necessary medical assistance, as well as our police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, private security teams and Ministry staff for their swift and professional response.

The safety and well-being of our residents and visitors will always remain our highest priority, and we will continue working closely with our law enforcement and emergency response partners to ensure that Pirates Week remains a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone."

The Ministry will redouble its efforts and remains committed to ensuring the highest standard of safety throughout the remaining Pirates Week celebrations.

The Ministry extends its sincere appreciation to everyone whose courage, professionalism and swift actions helped to prevent what could have been a far more serious tragedy. We ask that anyone who can provide further information to the RCIPS to come forward and assist in this process.