Search Suspended for Missing 7-Year-Old After Boating Tragedy in Alabama

The U.S. Coast Guard recovered two bodies but halted efforts to find Hunter Slezak after an extensive search in the Gulf of Mexico.

Hunter Slezak, 7, went missing during a boating trip near Dauphin Island, Alabama, with his father Michael Slezak, 40, and family friend Sam Wooley, 69.
The U.S. Coast Guard recovered the bodies of Michael Slezak and Sam Wooley on December 1 after locating a debris field nine miles south of Dauphin Island.
After searching 2,042 square miles over 65 hours, the Coast Guard suspended its search for Hunter, citing exhaustive efforts and no new leads.
Local authorities, family members, and volunteers have vowed to continue searching for Hunter, with his mother expressing deep grief and a need for closure.
Michael Slezak, a middle school teacher and coach, was remembered by his community for his dedication and positive impact on students and colleagues.