Disappearance of Lynette Hooker in Bahamas investigated as possible murder

The disappearance of American Lynette Hooker, who went overboard on 4 April in the Bahamas, is now being investigated as a possible murder. A new diving team from the United States Coast Guard is searching in areas that were not previously covered.

New diving investigation into disappearance of Lynette Hooker in Bahamas

According to yahoo.com, the disappearance of American Lynette Hooker, who went overboard in the Bahamas two months ago, is now officially being investigated as a possible murder. A diving team from the United States Coast Guard is on site to carry out new search operations.

Hooker disappeared on the evening of 4 April. Her husband Brian Hooker told authorities that the couple left in their rubber dinghy from Hope Town heading towards their yacht, the "Soulmate", when bad weather knocked her overboard.

Hooker's daughter, Karli Aylesworth, told ABC News that she is grateful for the new search operation. "She must be somewhere, so all the help we can get is greatly appreciated," said Aylesworth.

GPS data contradicts husband's account

The Coast Guard Investigative Service, which is leading the investigation, received permission from the Bahamas to deploy American divers in areas that were not previously searched. That decision followed after forensic evidence found on electronic devices belonging to Brian Hooker led investigators to new areas of interest. An American official told ABC News that Brian Hooker's account does not match the GPS data retrieved from his devices.

Brian Hooker was detained on 8 April and questioned by police. On 13 April, he was released without charge. A day later, he told ABC News that he remained in the Bahamas with the "sole purpose" of finding his wife — but several hours after that interview, he left anyway. His lawyer said he wanted to be with his terminally ill mother.

Aylesworth said she had doubts about her stepfather's story and confirmed she had had no contact with him since the day after her mother's disappearance. About the new search operation, she said: "I'm glad they were able to track Brian's location and discovered new areas to search. I know they're working very hard."

Daughter holds little hope

On the likelihood that her mother is still alive, Aylesworth is realistic. "I hope she's somewhere in Cuba and is just taking a break from life. But I think by now she would have at least contacted my grandmother and me. At this point, I don't have much confidence that she's still alive," said the daughter.

She added: "I still hope you're somewhere out there. I have my doubts, given how long it has been, but I love you and I hope to see you again."

Source: Google News BS — Crime