Family of 4 Vanishes on Road Trip Human Remains Discovered

Nearly a year after a Texas family of four vanished during a cross-country trip to Alaska, authorities have uncovered a chilling discovery in the icy waters of Kachemak Bay.

On May 28, 2025, Alaska State Troopers confirmed that human remains and the family’s missing boat were recovered — ending a months-long search that began in August 2024. The missing family included:

• David Maynard (42)

• Mary Maynard (37)

• Colton Maynard (11)

• Brantley Maynard (8)

The family was last seen launching their boat near Homer, Alaska, sparking a large-scale search when they failed to return. Despite initial efforts, no trace of them had been found — until now.

 Advanced Technology Leads to Major Breakthrough

In April 2025, the case saw new life when Support Vessels of Alaska, Vision Subsea, and Benthic Geoscience Inc. volunteered to assist using professional underwater scanning tools. With their help, divers located the family’s vessel nearly 180 feet underwater in Kachemak Bay.

Inside the boat, three sets of human remains were discovered and recovered between May 27 and May 28. The remains were immediately sent to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for positive identification and autopsy. The fourth family member is still unaccounted for.

 Remembering the Maynard Family

According to Christi Wells, who spoke on behalf of Mary Maynard’s parents, Mary worked as a traveling nurse, while her husband David managed a lawn care business and took care of their two sons full-time. They were described as a tight-knit, adventurous family who loved traveling and spending time with loved ones.

A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after their disappearance has raised over $21,000, with organizer Tanashea Aviles writing:

“The Maynards left a huge imprint on many lives — from the laughter they brought to the love they gave. The void they leave behind is indescribable, but we will honor them by coming together as a family and community.”

 What Happens Next?

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including how the vessel ended up submerged. Meanwhile, the community, friends, and extended family of the Maynards are grieving but finally receiving long-awaited answers.

As updates emerge, many are asking: What truly happened that day in the bay? For now, the discovery brings both heartbreak — and a measure of closure — to one of Alaska’s most haunting recent mysteries.