U.S. Citizen Detained in Bahamas Amid Search for Missing Michigan Woman Near Elbow Cay

Bahamian authorities have detained a 59-year-old U.S. citizen in connection with the disappearance of Lynette Hooker, a Michigan woman who was reported missing after falling from a boat near Elbow Cay in the Abaco Islands over the weekend.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed the detention but did not name the individual, citing policy. However, the man's attorney, Terrel Butler, has identified him as Brian Hooker, Lynette Hooker's husband. Butler said Brian Hooker "categorically and unequivocally denies any wrongdoing" and emphasized his client's cooperation with investigators.

According to police statements, Brian Hooker reported that he and Lynette set out from Elbow Cay on Saturday night in an 8-foot hard-bottom dinghy. He told police that his wife fell overboard with the boat's keys, disabling the engine. Strong currents reportedly swept Lynette Hooker away, and Brian Hooker said he lost sight of her. Police indicated he paddled the dinghy to shore, arriving at Marsh Harbor Boat Yard around 4 a.m. Sunday. Authorities stated that Lynette Hooker was wearing a black bathing suit at the time of her disappearance.

The Royal Bahamian Defense Force confirmed on Wednesday that the rescue operation had transitioned to a recovery mission, as the likelihood of finding Lynette Hooker alive diminishes. The U.S. Coast Guard's Criminal Investigative Service has launched a parallel criminal investigation into the incident, coordinating with the U.S. Attorney's Office. Coast Guard officials noted the investigation is in its early stages and focuses on jurisdiction over U.S.-flagged vessels in international waters. As of now, Bahamian authorities have not requested direct assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Lynette Hooker's daughter, Karli Aylesworth, has publicly questioned the sequence of events described by Brian Hooker, citing her mother's experience as a swimmer and sailor. Aylesworth has urged authorities to thoroughly investigate the case and stated she does not believe that her mother would have had possession of the boat key.

The investigation into Lynette Hooker’s disappearance is ongoing. Brian Hooker remains in Bahamian custody for questioning, and the search has shifted to a recovery effort in the waters around Elbow Cay.