The disappearance of Randall Spivey, 57, and his nephew Brandon Billmaier, 33, during a routine fishing trip off Florida’s Gulf Coast has left their families in anguish, with children repeatedly asking why their loved ones haven’t come home. As relatives grapple with explanations, one child’s vivid dream of flashing boat lights has eerily aligned with details from the rescue operation, prompting investigators to take notice. The case, unfolding since December 19, 2025, has evolved from a missing persons report to a federal inquiry, highlighting the perils of open-water adventures and the emotional toll on those left behind.

Spivey and Billmaier, both attorneys from Fort Myers, set out that morning on Spivey’s 42-foot boat named “Unstoppable” for what was meant to be a relaxing family outing. Spivey, a prominent trial lawyer specializing in personal injury cases, often took to the water for respite, accompanied by his nephew, who shared his passion for fishing and followed him into the legal profession. They were reported overdue around 8 p.m. when they failed to return. Hours later, just after midnight on December 20, the Coast Guard located the vessel adrift approximately 70 miles west of Fort Myers. The boat was empty, with the engine still running and in gear, suggesting a sudden incident that prevented the men from regaining control. No life jackets or distress signals were activated, though the vessel’s condition raised questions about possible foul play or an accident.

The U.S. Coast Guard, along with local agencies like the Collier and Lee County Sheriff’s Offices and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, launched an extensive search covering an area larger than Connecticut. Using helicopters, boats, and drones, teams scoured the Gulf for over 60 hours before suspending active efforts on December 22 due to the vast ocean expanse and diminishing survival odds. The decision came after exhaustive coverage, with the search area drifting over 100 miles offshore. Families expressed gratitude for the rescuers’ bravery but accepted the harsh reality, noting the risks to volunteers in continuing.

Amid the grief, the children’s persistent questions have compounded the heartache. Relatives describe gatherings where young family members, including Billmaier’s children from his previous marriage, inquire about their return, struggling to comprehend the loss. One child recounted a dream of the boat’s lights flashing erratically, a detail that mirrored reports from the rescue team about potential intermittent signals or reflections noted during the initial sweep—though unconfirmed, it has fueled speculation and kept hope flickering. The families, inseparable through shared vacations and holidays, now face their first Christmas without the men, turning to community support and vigils.

The FBI joined the investigation days later, exploring all angles from mechanical failure to external factors, given the boat’s unusual state. Florida’s Gulf waters, known for unpredictable currents and weather, see numerous boating incidents annually, with over 700 accidents reported in 2024 alone. Spivey’s firm continues operations, honoring his legacy of advocating for the injured, while Billmaier’s ex-wife shared poignant memories of his final text expressing love and plans to return that night.

As December 31 arrives, the case remains open, with appeals for public tips via hotlines. The child’s dream, whether coincidence or intuition, underscores the human element in such tragedies, reminding us that amid vast seas, small voices can echo profound truths.