A pilot from the National Geographic series Wicked Tuna tragically lost his life in a boating accident.
On Sunday evening, Charlie Griffin was out on the water with a friend in the Outer Banks of North Carolina when he disappeared.
The Coast Guard reported that two boaters departing from Virginia Beach were delayed in reaching Wanchese, North Carolina, where their boat required repairs at 11 p.m. on Sunday night.
A Coast Guard spokesperson informed The Virginian-Pilot that the two had not been seen or heard from since 6:15 that evening.
On Monday, Coast Guard personnel and local first responders discovered the empty boat. Upon searching inside, they found the bodies of Griffin and his dog.
As of Monday evening, officials were still searching for the second individual who was meant to be on the trip.
A poignant message on Griffin’s Facebook page, Reels of Fortune, confirmed his passing. Accompanying a photo of Griffin smiling in the sun, the post read, “It is with the deepest sadness that we report that Charlie Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila, have died in a boating accident today.”
“Please keep family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”
Griffin began his acting career in North Carolina during Season 2 of Wicked Tuna and continued until Season 5.
The reality TV series on National Geographic showcases skilled fishermen who earn their living by catching large fish that can be valued at tens of thousands of dollars.
At the conclusion of each season, the fisherman with the best performance is declared the winner, earning them lifelong bragging rights.
Griffin emerged victorious at the end of the fourth season.
Celebrity fans expressed their condolences and sorrow over the tragic news on social media.
One fan commented, “One of my all-time favorite guys. Rest easy, Griff.”
Others shared sentiments like, “This is very sad for all the show’s fans,” and “He will forever be one of my favorites.”
Some fans posted a touching photo of Charlie and Leila, recalling that they had met them last summer during a boat ride.
“Charlie was very knowledgeable and friendly, a great captain,” one fan wrote.
NC Watermen United, an organization dedicated to supporting commercial fishermen, expressed that Griffin was “well loved and will be missed by many.”
In their statement, they emphasized, “We will always be grateful for the difference he made in our lives.” This highlights the significant impact Griffin had on those around him, both personally and professionally.