Texas family of four missing after Alaska vacation

A Texas family of four on vacation in Alaska is currently lost at sea after their boat capsized near Homer, Alaska, on August 3.

The Coast Guard has suspended the search missions for David Maynard (42), Mary Maynard (37), Colton Maynard (11), and Brantley Maynard (7).

The Maynard family was aboard a 28-foot aluminium boat with four other individuals when the vessel began to sink around 7 p.m. A distress call was made, and a nearby boat, Salty Sea, rescued four people from a life raft. Fortunately, these individuals did not sustain any injuries.

According to the Anchorage Daily News, the Coast Guard initiated a rescue search covering an area approximately “16 miles west of the Homer Spit.” The conditions at the time included 2-foot waves and winds less than 5 knots. Authorities estimate the water temperature to have been in the low 50s Fahrenheit.

On August 4, around 6 p.m., the Coast Guard suspended the search efforts. The search involved a helicopter, an airplane, a cutter, and two additional vessels. Additionally, Alaska Wildlife Troopers and good Samaritan boats participated in the search.

The Maynard family hails from Troy, Texas. Mary worked as a travel nurse, while David managed their children and his lawn care business. Their sons, Colton and Brantley, were active in soccer and baseball. Reports suggest that the family was visiting friends and relatives in Alaska.

In the wake of the incident, a GoFundMe page was established to assist with the “unexpected expenses that the family would have to cover so suddenly.” The fundraiser has successfully raised nearly $11,000, surpassing its $10,000 goal.

The GoFundMe post reads: “The Maynards are not just friends; they are family to me and many others. By now, a lot of us have heard about the tragic news. For those who don’t know, this sweet family of four was lost at sea during their vacation to Alaska. Mary’s parents are still there, hoping to bring them home. This family is going through a lot right now. We are asking for prayers and donations if you can, to help with unexpected expenses that the family would have to cover so suddenly.”

Additionally, the post highlights the profound impact the Maynard family had on those around them: “The Maynards left a huge imprint on many people, from the laughter they brought to us, to the love and family-oriented connection they provided. It is indescribable the void that will be left behind, but I know if we come together as a family and a community, they would know how much they meant to everyone.”

The tragic loss of the Maynard family has deeply affected their community. While the search efforts have been suspended, the memory of their lives and the love they shared continue to resonate with friends, family, and all who knew them.