Brian Hooker’s stepmother, Donna Hooker, has publicly expressed her suspicions about her stepson amid the ongoing investigation into his missing wife, Lynette Hooker. Donna, who participated in a livestream on the “Surviving the Survivor” podcast, shared her belief that Brian is not truthful and offered her help to investigators.
Lynette Hooker, a 55-year-old from Michigan, disappeared while sailing in the Bahamas with her husband on their boat “Soulmate.” She was reported missing on April 4, after Brian claimed she fell from a dinghy. Brian was later seen at the Central Police Station in Freeport, The Bahamas, to collect personal items, including his wedding ring. He was questioned but released by authorities, returning to the U.S. in mid-April.
Bahamian authorities initially detained Brian as part of their inquiry. Despite knowing Brian for decades, Donna Hooker has not been contacted by investigators. She believes her insight could aid in the search for Lynette.
Donna, married to Brian’s father for over 40 years, lived with Brian during his teenage years. Describing Brian as intelligent yet reserved, she noted his tendency to isolate himself in his room. Attempts to reach him over the years were difficult, even through his sister, Jennifer, in California.
The U.S. Coast Guard has taken Brian’s sailboat “Soulmate” as part of their investigation. Donna last saw Brian in April 2022, during a visit following his father’s stroke. She found out about Lynette’s disappearance through news channel alerts given by a family member.
Neither Brian nor his attorney has publicly addressed any allegations, maintaining that they are cooperating with authorities. The investigation into Lynette Hooker’s disappearance remains active, with no charges filed against Brian Hooker.