Recently released body camera footage reveals the moment when U.S. Coast Guard agents took custody of Brian Hooker’s yacht, the Soulmate, as it was returning to the United States from the Bahamas back in May.
This footage emerges following a lengthy investigation into the disappearance of Lynette Hooker, who went missing while vacationing with her husband, Brian, in April.
Lynette was reported missing on April 4 after she and Brian found themselves on a boat near Elbow Cay in the Abaco Islands.
The video from May 9 shows that the crew transporting the boat was unaware they were carrying potential evidence related to the investigation.
During a tense exchange with the transport crew, one officer states, “The boat is currently being seized.”
“Oh…” the captain responds, clearly surprised.
Earlier in the footage, an officer inquires about the number of individuals on the boat. The captain, his expression obscured, answers, “It’s just the two of us.”
The footage confirms that Brian Hooker was not present on the yacht at the time of the seizure.
The officer later asks if they were heading to St. Augustine, to which the captain replies, “We’re heading to Fernandina Beach. We’re moving the boat for the owner.”
When asked whether the boat’s owner planned to meet them, the captain hesitantly responds, “I don’t think so, no.”
Brian claims that Lynette fell off the dinghy during the night and was taken away by the waves.
As of now, Lynette’s body has not been recovered.
The U.S. Coast Guard conducted a dive search in the Sea of Abaco and a land search with cadaver dogs last month, hoping to uncover any signs of Lynette.
They returned with the dinghy where Lynette was last seen, continuing the investigation for any clues.
A family friend and advocate described Lynette as a supportive person who was always there for others.
“She’s the kind of person who brings joy in any situation,” the friend shared, emphasizing her helpful nature.
“She’s the one who helps you clean up after a party and turns up early to help set up. When you need a friend, she’s there.”
After being questioned and subsequently released by Bahamian authorities, Brian returned to the U.S. and has since been out of public view.
Currently, Brian Hooker has not faced any charges or been implicated in any wrongdoing.
