Mr. Pierce wanted to show off a property that he described as “the most important passion in my life”: a once-glamorous beachside resort that he had recently bought for more than $15 million.
In its heyday, the resort, a W Hotel, boasted a 6,000-square-foot spa, restaurants run by a Michelin-starred chef and sweeping views of the ocean; it was a key source of tourism jobs in Vieques.
Then, in 2017, the hotel was damaged by Hurricane Maria, forcing it to close.
Mr. Pierce planned to reopen it, using his crypto riches to revitalize both the glistening property and the local economy.
A former child actor, Mr. Pierce knew how to put on a show.
Persons:
Brock Pierce, Pierce, Hurricane Maria
Organizations:
Michelin
Locations:
Vieques, Puerto Rico