(RepublicanJournal.org) – The star of a popular reality TV series died after his private fishing boat apparently capsized. The “Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks” star was out with a companion and his pet dog when the tragedy struck. Authorities recovered his body, as well as his dog’s, but the whereabouts of the second boat occupant are still unknown.
The Outer Banks Voice reported that the US Coast Guard found the remains of Charlie Griffin and his dog, Leila, on the shore of Pea Island on March 4. They believe the TV star’s 35-foot boat, which they also found nearby, capsized while traveling near Oregon Inlet. They had left from a Virginia location and were on their way to Wanchese, North Carolina. When the vessel didn’t arrive on schedule, authorities began the search.
Authorities are still looking for the other person who was in the boat. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is leading the investigation, but the US Coast Guard, National Park Service, Dare County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina Marine Fisheries, and US Fish and Wildlife are assisting.
The Reels of Fortune Wicked Tuna Facebook page also posted the news of Griffin’s death, asking fans to keep his family and friends in their thoughts. They didn’t offer any further details on the incident, only mentioning that the actor and his beloved dog had perished in a “boating accident.” They added that they would remember “Griff” forever.
Entertainment Weekly received a joint statement from National Geographic and Pilgrim Media Group, which produces “Wicked Tuna.” It noted the companies’ sadness over the news of Griffin’s passing, calling him “a spirited fisherman with a big heart.”
“Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks” followed crews seeking out highly coveted bluefin tuna in the dangerous waters off the coast of North Carolina. The show featured Griffin and his crew, the Reels of Fortune, in the second through the fifth seasons.
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