An American businesswoman has died in the United States weeks after she was brutally beaten while horseback riding at a popular beach in Antigua,.

Karen Johannsen’s death was confirmed in a media release by the Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force on December 27.

Johannsen, who resided at Paradise View, succumbed to her injuries on December 26, after she was airlifted overseas for advanced medical treatment following the December 19 assault at Dickenson Bay.

According to police reports, officers responded to a wounding complaint around 11 am on the day of the incident. 

Johannsen was reportedly participating in a horseback riding tour when she was struck to the back of the head with a blunt object by an unknown man.

Emergency Medical Services transported her to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where she was treated for serious head injuries. 

Due to the severity of her condition, Johannsen was later airlifted to the University of Wisconsin Hospital for further treatment.

A male suspect is currently in police custody and is assisting investigators as inquiries into the matter continue. 

No charges have yet been announced.

In a statement, the police administration expressed condolences to Johannsen’s family and loved ones and urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.

Members of the public can contact the Criminal Investigations Department at +1-268-462-3913 or call the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).