Three boaters went missing on Friday last week. Two bodies were found deceased in Dauphin Island, Alabama, while the third, a 7-year-old child, is still missing.
The 20-foot white cuddy cabin boat, named Marty Ann, left Billy Goat Hole in Dauphin Island and did not return. It was last seen shrimping in Pelican Bay.
Sam Wooley, 69 years old, owned the boat. The two guests were a father and son, Michael Slezak, 42 years old, and Hunter Slezak, 7 years old.
Michael was a math teacher and head baseball coach at Semmes Middle School.
The bodies of Sam and Michael were recovered about 8 to 9 miles southwest of Dauphin Island, according to Cpl. Michael Connick of the Dauphin Island Police Department.
A Coast Guard spokesperson reported that a “debris field” was discovered along with the two bodies. The search for the third boater is ongoing.
However, the Coast Guard announced that it has suspended its active search for 7-year-old Hunter Slezak off Dauphin Island as of Sunday evening.
Captain Robert Tucker, Deputy Commander of Coast Guard Sector Mobile, released the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened and offer our sincerest condolences to the families, friends, and communities affected by this heartbreaking and tragic incident. Suspending an active search for a missing child is an exceptionally difficult decision and is only made after the most exhaustive efforts have occurred. We thank all the search and rescue crews who worked tirelessly around the clock with hopes of a different outcome.”
A GoFundMe has been set up by the family to help cover funeral costs, food, and other essential expenses during this incredibly difficult time.
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