NEW YORK — As investigators intensify the search for Lynette Hooker, the 55-year-old Michigan woman who vanished in the Bahamas in April, new speculation has emerged that her husband, Brian Hooker, may have left the United States — possibly crossing the California-Mexico border by land or sea.

A source claiming to be a close friend of Brian Hooker’s told the New York Post that the 58-year-old boater could be attempting to evade growing scrutiny. “You’re telling me, Brian, 6’4″, Marine Corps tattoo, ultra-white hair, smirk of the century — has not had one person at a Safeway, a QT, or a Buc-ee’s, or In-N-Out, spot him?” the friend questioned.

Lynette Hooker disappeared on April 4, 2026, while the couple was traveling in an 8-foot dinghy from Hope Town toward their yacht Soulmate near Elbow Cay in the Abacos. Brian Hooker told authorities his wife fell overboard in rough waters, taking the boat keys with her, forcing him to paddle for hours to reach shore.

However, newly obtained GPS data from an electronic device contradicts key elements of his account, prompting U.S. investigators to relaunch searches with divers, cadaver dogs, and drones. The case is now being treated as a possible homicide, with the U.S. Coast Guard seizing both the dinghy and the sailboat Soulmate for forensic analysis.

Brian Hooker was briefly arrested by Bahamian police but released without charges. He has “categorically and unequivocally” denied any wrongdoing. His daughter from a previous relationship has publicly questioned his story, citing alleged past threats.

A former prosecutor told outlets that federal authorities likely have Brian Hooker firmly “in their crosshairs,” even as his current whereabouts remain unknown. Friends noted his extensive boating experience, raising the possibility he could have fled by water.

The renewed search efforts in the Bahamas continue, with U.S. officials pressing for expanded operations. Lynette Hooker’s family and friends continue to hold out hope while demanding answers. No charges have been filed against Brian Hooker at this time.

The investigation remains active.