It’s a heartbreaking loss for the reality TV community.
Charlie Griffin, a beloved pilot from the hit National Geographic show Wicked Tuna, tragically passed away in a horrific boating accident on Sunday night.
Griffin, who was boating with a friend off the coast of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, went missing after setting out for repairs at a boat dock in Wanchese. According to the Coast Guard, the two men had left Virginia Beach late on Sunday and were scheduled to arrive by 11 p.m. that evening.
The two had not been heard from since 6:15 p.m., when they made their last communication.
The Discovery
When local authorities and the Coast Guard arrived at the location the following day, they found the boat empty. Upon searching the boat, they discovered Griffin and his beloved dog Leila’s bodies onboard.
Griffin’s family and friends have been left devastated by this loss. In a statement on his official Facebook page, the reality star’s fans were given the tragic update:
“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.”
A Reality TV Star Gone Too Soon
Charlie Griffin joined the cast of Wicked Tuna during Season 2 and remained a fixture of the show until Season 5. His contributions to the show were immense, with his expert knowledge of fishing and his easygoing nature making him a hit with fans.
The show, which has aired on National Geographic, follows expert fishermen as they compete to catch some of the world’s largest fish, each worth tens of thousands of dollars. Griffin’s character was admired by many, and his loss is felt deeply by the Wicked Tuna community.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday evening, officials were still searching for the second person who was supposed to be on the trip. Authorities have yet to determine what caused the boat to go off course or the exact cause of the accident. The investigation is ongoing, and local law enforcement is urging anyone with information to come forward.
A Tragic Loss for All
The world of Wicked Tuna and its viewers will feel the absence of Charlie Griffin for years to come. His passion for fishing, his love for his dog, and his presence on screen made him a standout figure. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, adventure, and love for the ocean.
Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.
