A sailboat in Florida and a site in the Sea of Abaco, Bahamas will be searched for clues in the disappearance of Lynette Hooker. She vanished during a vacation with her husband, Brian Hooker.
The Hookers, married for about 25 years, were on their sailboat, Soulmate, when Lynette disappeared. Reports suggest the couple was returning to their boat in a dinghy one night when she vanished.
The U.S. Coast Guard seized Soulmate as it left the Bahamas, docking it in Fort Pierce, Florida. It was later moved to Fort Lauderdale. Authorities will inspect the vessel for digital and other evidence.
A U.S. source confirmed the boat will be thoroughly examined for any digital devices or computer systems that might provide leads, as stated by Nicole Parker, a former FBI agent.
Bahamian authorities approved a U.S. team to explore a new area in the Sea of Abaco for Lynette’s remains or evidence. Despite the incident’s location, the U.S. has jurisdiction due to the suspect and victim’s nationality and the vessel’s flag.
Brian Hooker was initially held, then released by Bahamian authorities. He claims Lynette fell overboard from their dinghy. His U.S. citizenship, along with Lynette’s, and the U.S.-flagged vessel, allow U.S. involvement.
The case demonstrates the role of international law enforcement cooperation. Thus far, Brian Hooker faces no charges, and efforts to contact his attorney were unsuccessful.