Heartfelt Farewell to a Local Fishing Legend
Outer Banks, N.C. — It’s with heavy hearts that the community of Outer Banks comes together during a time of profound grief. Recently, the U.S. Coast Guard made the difficult decision to suspend its search for a missing boater, following the recovery of renowned former Wicked Tuna captain Charlie Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila. The pair was discovered deceased about two miles south of Oregon Inlet, after a tragic incident on March 4, 2024.
For over 41 hours, the Coast Guard and its partners coordinated an expansive search operation that covered an astonishing 400 miles via air, sea, and shore. Unfortunately, they were unable to locate the third person aboard the boat, identified as Chad Dunn, 35. The mission was launched soon after the pair was reported missing in conditions characterized by visibility of just over half a mile and seas measuring four to six feet.
A Community in Mourning
Cmdr. Corrie Sergent of the Coast Guard’s North Carolina sector expressed the emotional weight of such decisions, stating, “It is one of the hardest decisions to call off a search, and we offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends affected by this tragic event.” As the community reels from the heart-wrenching loss, local tributes have poured in celebrating Griffin’s life and legacy.
On his official Facebook page, the folks from Reels of Fortune Wicked Tuna shared their grief: “It is with the deepest sadness we report that Charlie Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila, have passed away in a boating accident.” They requested prayers for the family and friends, adding, “We will forever remember Griff!”
Additionally, the North Carolina Watermen United posted a heartfelt message remembering Griffin as a beloved figure in the fishing community, stating, “Griff touched all whom he met, including all his fans from his days on ‘Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks.’” His infectious passion for fishing made him a cherished member of the fishing family.
A Tragic Turn of Events
Details about the fateful trip revealed that Griffin, Dunn, and another local man had set out to retrieve a boat from Rudee Inlet on that Sunday morning. A local fisherman, Pat Foster, remembered assisting them in getting the boat operational. “After about an hour, they were good to go,” Foster recounted, noting that he had checked in on them later in the day, only to be met with heartbreaking news the next morning.
The search for Dunn continued as the Coast Guard enlisted the help of the National Park Service for shoreline searches. As days passed, the ripple effects of this tragedy deeply felt throughout the local fishing community began to emerge. Fisherman David Wright shared his thoughts on the hazardous conditions often present at Oregon Inlet, noting, “It’s always been well known as one of the more treacherous inlets.”
Remembering Charlie Griffin
Griffin was not just a captain; he was a larger-than-life character whose love for fishing was contagious. Fisherman Wright emphasized how Griffin’s enthusiastic stories and joy for every catch left an impact on those around him. “Anytime you lose a fellow fisherman and friend, it’s terrible,” Foster remarked, highlighting the immense sense of loss felt by all.
The ongoing investigation into the incident has sparked reflections not only on the challenges of local waters but on the undeniable bond shared among the fishing community. As support continues to pour in from all corners, the legacy of Captain Charlie Griffin shines brightly, making clear the profound loss felt by friends, family, and fans alike.
Information continues to unfold as North Carolina Fish and Wildlife leads the investigation into this tragic incident. The community stands united, honoring Griffin’s memory and offering solace to his family during this deeply challenging time.
