On the evening of March 4, the US Coast Guard provided an update on a boating tragedy that occurred earlier in the day. The Coast Guard received a report in the morning about an overdue vessel traveling from Virginia to Wanchese, NC. The 35-foot boat was eventually located off Pea Island, and the body of Charles Griffin Jr., a resident of Wanchese, and his dog, who unfortunately did not survive, were found onshore nearby. The vessel is believed to have capsized somewhere near Oregon Inlet.

Authorities are currently conducting a search for the second occupant who was also onboard the vessel. The ongoing investigation is being led by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, with support from officers from various agencies such as the US Fish and Wildlife, National Park Service, NC Marine Fisheries, Dare County Sheriff's Office, and the US Coast Guard.

The Reels of Fortune Wicked Tuna Facebook page shared a heartfelt message of condolences earlier in the day, informing followers about the tragic boating accident. The post expressed deep sadness over the loss of Charlie Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila. The community was urged to keep Griffin's family and friends in their thoughts and prayers.

In an effort to gather further details, The Voice reached out to the US Coast Guard. As soon as additional information becomes available, this story will be updated.

This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with boating, particularly during challenging weather or in treacherous waters. It highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols and ensuring that vessels are seaworthy before embarking on any journey.

It is crucial for boaters to remain vigilant and prepared, carefully following guidelines provided by experienced authorities, to help prevent tragedies like this from occurring. As the search continues for the missing second occupant, the community hopes for a successful and swift resolution to this distressing situation.