Stepdad Says Coast Guard Search in Bahamas Was “Expected” As Family Seeks Answers in Lynette Hooker Disappearance

The stepfather of missing Michigan woman Lynette Hooker says he is not discouraged after the U.S. Coast Guard concluded its search in the Bahamas without recovering her body. Bill Hamlet told NewsNation’s podcast that he was relieved the Coast Guard participated because their involvement signals investigators suspected foul play.

Lynette Hooker, far left, is missing in the Bahamas after she reportedly fell overboard. (Credit: Karli Aylesworth)

Family Reaction

“No, I’m not disappointed,” Hamlet said. “In fact, I’m happy they were there because it shows that they believe, like we believe, that there was foul play.” Hamlet added that he did not expect the Bahamas search to turn up physical evidence, because he suspects Lynette’s husband, Brian Hooker, may have staged the scene to mislead investigators.

Lynette Hooker smiles alongside her daughter, Karli Aylesworth, in a photo shared by family. Hooker disappeared while boating with her husband in the Bahamas. CREDIT: KARLI AYLESWORTH

“I know Brian well enough to know that if he did that, if he had a position, he was using that as a diversion,” Hamlet said. “I really didn’t expect them to find anything, to be honest.”

Hamlet emphasized the emotional toll the case has taken on the family. He described Lynette’s mother, Darlene, as suffering frequent and intense grief—crying spells triggered by memories or images—which has made the uncertainty exhausting for relatives.

Karli Aylesworth (left), and her mother, Lynette Hooker. (Credit: Karli Aylesworth)

Investigation Status

Lynette Hooker vanished while sailing in the Bahamas with her husband, Brian Hooker. According to authorities, Brian told investigators that Lynette fell overboard and was swept away by rough weather while the couple was in a dinghy. The U.S. Coast Guard ended its search in the Bahamas without recovering a body, though its law enforcement branch remains involved in the ongoing investigation.

Brian Hooker was arrested in the Bahamas and later released; sources told NewsNation the case is being investigated as a possible homicide. Lynette’s mother, Darlene Hamlet, said she still hopes the disappearance was an accident and finds the idea of intentional harm difficult to accept.

Hamlet also mentioned reports that Brian or his family have discussed living “off the grid.” He referenced a remote cabin in the California mountains reportedly owned by Brian’s brother that has no electricity or phone service and could serve as a hideaway.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not publicly announced any charges related to Lynette Hooker’s disappearance. Family members continue to seek answers and closure.