Husband arrested as probe deepens over woman’s mysterious disappearance at sea in Bahamas
A 59-year-old man, Brian Hooker, has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of his wife, Lynette Hooker, who went missing during a boating trip in the Bahamas, as authorities intensify investigations into the incident.
Hooker was taken into custody on Wednesday evening in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, days after he claimed his wife fell overboard from a dinghy while they were heading to their yacht near Elbow Cay.
Confirming the development, Shanta Knowles (reported in some outlets as Advardo Dames) said the suspect had been taken into custody as part of an ongoing probe by the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Daughter raises alarm
The arrest follows growing concerns raised by the missing woman’s daughter, Karli Aylesworth, who publicly expressed fears that foul play may be involved.
“I do believe something might have happened to her,” she said in an interview, alleging a history of domestic issues between her mother and stepfather.
She further claimed that Hooker did not inform her of her mother’s disappearance until nearly 24 hours after the incident.
Brian Hooker denies wrongdoing
Hooker’s lawyer, Terrel Butler, confirmed the arrest but insisted his client is innocent.
“He categorically and unequivocally denies any wrongdoing,” Butler said, adding that Hooker has been cooperating fully with investigators.
Hooker had earlier taken to Facebook to express grief over the incident, describing himself as “heartbroken” and blaming harsh weather conditions for the tragedy.
Conflicting accounts
According to preliminary reports, Lynette, 55, was allegedly swept away by strong currents after falling from an eight-foot dinghy during rough seas.
Police said the couple were travelling from Hope Town to Elbow Cay when the incident occurred. Authorities added that Lynette reportedly fell into the water with the boat’s keys, causing the engine to shut off.
Hooker told investigators he lost sight of his wife due to heavy winds and waves before paddling back to shore, eventually arriving at a boatyard in the early hours of Sunday, where the incident was reported.
Search turns recovery mission
A joint search operation involving marine, aerial and land teams was launched shortly after the report. However, officials have now shifted focus from rescue to recovery.
The United States Coast Guard has also confirmed that a criminal investigation has been opened, although details remain limited.
Meanwhile, Lynette’s mother, Darlene Hamlett, has demanded answers, stating she had not heard from Hooker in days following the incident.
The couple, who had been married for over 20 years, resided in Michigan, United States.
As investigations continue, authorities say further updates will be provided as more facts emerge surrounding the circumstances of Lynette’s disappearance.
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