The search is underway for a missing uncle and nephew who disappeared during a fishing trip in Southwest Florida. Randall Spivey, 57, and Brandon Billmaier, 33, have been missing since Friday.
The U.S. Coast Guard has launched one of the largest searches in the region’s history to find Spivey and Billmaier. WINK News is covering the story closely, with live updates from the dock where the duo was last seen.
Spivey and Billmaier left for what was supposed to be a routine fishing trip on a 42-foot Freeman boat. When they did not return by sunset, their family grew concerned. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that they departed Friday morning for a long day offshore, but they never returned.
The search effort involves 30 to 50 volunteers, each assigned a 5-mile by 5-mile section to search. Search coordinator Paul Rocuant said volunteers are ready to continue the search tomorrow if necessary.
The Coast Guard discovered the empty boat 70 miles offshore.
The Naples Airport is also supporting search operations by reducing fuel prices for pilots flying search missions. While the airport is not directing these flights, officials are making it easier for those who want to help.
The community’s response has been inspiring, with friends, neighbors, and even strangers joining the search.
Randall Spivey (left) and Brandon Billmaier (right).Â
Credit: Lee County Sheriff’s Office
The U.S. Coast Guard released a statement Sunday morning, saying:
“Today, we continue to search with air & surface crews, pursuing all leads & saturating the search area. Thank you to this amazing community for their support. Our thoughts are with the families as we continue our efforts.” — Capt. Corrie Sergent, Sector St. Pete CO.
The U.S. Coast Guard began coordinating the search at 7 a.m., and efforts will continue throughout the day.