Whale whisperer Andrew Armour charged in accidental death of visiting student

Armour was piloting the boat filled with American tourists when it struck the 22 year old Schulman. At the time, the fourth-year foreign affairs major was part of a study at sea group of 54 students from the University of Virginia, who were visiting the island.

Police said the boat was slowly beginning to back up when its propeller came into contact with Schulman who was in the water.

She is said to have sustained major injuries to all parts of her body, and was pronounced dead at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Roseau.

Just last month, lawyers for the family of Schulman wrote to the Director of Public Prosecutions Gene Pestaina and Police Chief, Daniel Carbon, questioning why the Dominican authorities had not arrested Armour almost six months after the incident.

“The question Ms. Schulman’s family and friends repeatedly ask is when Mr. Armour will be brought to justice in Dominica. I would appreciate the courtesy of a reply to this letter, although I appreciate that you are constrained by the law with regard to the quantum of information you can provide,” part of the letter read.

“I have become concerned about the amount of time that has passed since Schulman’s tragic death. As you know, from the numerous reports of Schulman’s death in Dominica that are listed in the attached letter, the world closely followed this matter and continues to do so.” The letter continued.

The Schulman family is represented by a leading Washington law firm Kellogg Huber Hansen, which claims among its lawyers to include former Assistant United States Attorneys, and attorneys who have held senior positions in the White House and the Department of Justice.

Armour is a leading whale expert and is known around the world for his pioneering work with the more than 40 whale species that can be found in the waters around Dominica. He is affectionately known as the whale whisperer for his ability to communicate effectively with the giant creatures.

In addition, he is proprietor of Kubuli Watersports, and for over twenty years has conducted whale watching and dive tours.