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DAUPHIN ISLAND, Ala. (BFMG) — The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for 7-year-old Hunter Slezak, who went missing Friday during a boating trip off Dauphin Island. The decision, announced Sunday evening, follows a 65-hour search covering over 2,000 square miles by air and sea.
Hunter is the only victim still missing after his father, Michael Slezak, and family friend, Sam Wooley, were found deceased Saturday afternoon by a Coast Guard crew.
In a press release, the Coast Guard expressed their sympathies to Hunter’s family and the community. “Our hearts go out to the Slezak family during this unimaginable time,” the statement read.
A Mother's Plea
Before the search concluded, Hunter’s mother, Megan Slezak, made an emotional plea on Facebook for volunteers to continue the search.
“Coast Guard is searching the rest of today until nightfall for my precious Hunter,” Megan wrote. “After that they are ending their search parties. If anyone can volunteer their boat or plane to help look today it would mean so much… I just need the closure of having his body to bury. This is THE WORST pain ever.”
Her message resonated across the community, with many offering condolences and sharing support.
Community Mourns
Michael Slezak, a beloved baseball coach at Semmes Middle School, was honored in a tribute posted by the school on Sunday. The message highlighted his impact on students and the broader school community.
A GoFundMe campaign to assist the Slezak family with funeral expenses quickly surpassed its $25,000 goal, underscoring the outpouring of support from those touched by the tragedy.
A Tragic Loss
The boating trip turned fatal when the vessel carrying the three individuals capsized. Details surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
While the Coast Guard has ended its official search efforts, volunteers and local residents have pledged to continue looking for Hunter, offering a glimmer of hope for the family seeking closure.
This story is developing. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
