On November 29, 7-year-old Hunter Slezak set out in a boat with his father Michael Slezak and family friend Sam Wooley in Alabama. This event marked the beginning of a harrowing ordeal. A day later, the remains of Michael and Wooley were discovered, leaving Hunter still missing. The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) shared a news release with PEOPLE on Monday, December 16, confirming that they had suspended operations on Sunday, December 15. “We exhausted all of our efforts on the water, in the air and with our divers,” said Sheriff Paul Burch. “It is our hope and prayer that the Slezak family will receive closure. We encourage anyone on the water and in the surrounding areas to contact us if anything is seen pertaining to Hunter’s case.”

Initial Incident and Search Efforts

In a previous press release, the U.S. Coast Guard stated that Hunter had been out in the water with his father and Sam Wooley after their boat left from the Billy Goat Hole Boat Ramp on Dauphin Island on Friday, November 29. That evening, “watchstanders from Coast Guard Sector Mobile received a report of an overdue vessel, the MARTY ANN, with three people on board.” The boat was “last heard from on Friday afternoon.” A day later, on November 30, a Coast Guard crew discovered a debris field about 9 miles south of Dauphin Island. There, they found the remains of Wooley and the elder Slezak.The search for Hunter Slezak became a massive undertaking. The MCSO and the Coast Guard left no stone unturned. They conducted extensive searches on the water, in the air, and with their divers. Every possible lead was followed, and every inch of the area was scoured. But despite their best efforts, Hunter remained missing.

Community Support and Memorial Services

According to Al.com, a service was held for the boy on Sunday, December 15, at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. “Hunter was full of sweet smiles, gave lots of hugs and exemplified happiness,” read a published obituary. “He watched out for others and was so kind. He loved his family, playing sports and being outside. He was so very loved and will be truly missed.” In a Dec. 15 Facebook post, Megan Slezak, the wife of Michael Slezak and mother of Hunter, thanked all those who searched for her son. “These past two weeks have been an overwhelming nightmare, but I have also been overwhelmed with the support of friends, family and community,” she wrote. “Thank you to the thousands of people who have shown their support in so many different ways.” She continued to express her gratitude for the prayers, messages, calls, meals, flowers, gifts, monetary donations, and those who organized and attended the candlelight vigils and funeral services.The community came together in a show of strength and unity. People from all walks of life offered their support in any way they could. This outpouring of love and support was a source of comfort for the Slezak family during this difficult time.

Fundraising and Call for Information

A GoFundMe established for the Slezak family in the wake of the tragedy has raised over $91,000 as of December 16. This financial support will help the family during this difficult time and provide some relief as they deal with the loss of their loved one.The MCSO also asked those with information related to the case to call 251-574-8633 or visit www.mobileso.com/crimetips and report anonymously. Every piece of information could potentially lead to the discovery of Hunter Slezak. The community is eager to bring closure to this tragic story and ensure that justice is served.